1975 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1975 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz E (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1960 Wartburg 311. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1960 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 370 kg more than 1960 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz E (160 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Wartburg 311. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mercedes-Benz E | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | E | 311 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 900 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 | 160 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 |
