1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1955 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1955 Wartburg 311. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1955 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1955 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Wartburg 311. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1955 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | 280 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2460 mm |
