1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1963 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1963 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1963 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1963 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 Wartburg 311, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1963 Wartburg 311 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
Model | 280 | 311 |
Year Released | 1973 | 1963 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2778 cc | 992 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 240 Nm | 98 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 73.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 43 L |