1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1974 Fiat 131 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 131 (75 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 131 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 1974 Fiat 131 (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
Make | Fiat | Wartburg |
Model | 131 | 311 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 992 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 124 Nm | 98 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 7.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2460 mm |