1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 (95 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 375 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | 200 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 43 L |
