1976 Fiat 126 vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1976 Fiat 126 is newer by 15 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 992 cc (3 cylinders), 1961 Wartburg 311 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Wartburg 311 (49 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 311 should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Wartburg 311 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Fiat 126 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 1976 Fiat 126. 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, 1961 Wartburg 311 (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1961 Wartburg 311 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Fiat 126 | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
Make | Fiat | Wartburg |
Model | 126 | 311 |
Year Released | 1976 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 594 cc | 992 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 23 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 39 Nm | 98 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 43 L |