1974 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1974 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz E (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 370 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 312, 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 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mercedes-Benz E | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
Model | E | 312 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 159 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 70 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2460 mm |