1974 Mini MK III vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1974 Mini MK III 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 898 cc (3 cylinders), 1961 Wartburg 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Wartburg 312 (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 312 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1974 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1961 Wartburg 312 (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1961 Wartburg 312 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mini MK III | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | Mini | Wartburg |
Model | MK III | 312 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 61 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2460 mm |