1977 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1977 Chevrolet Caprice is newer by 16 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 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chevrolet Caprice (148 HP) has 99 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 750 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 1977 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1977 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1977 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chevrolet Caprice | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Wartburg |
| Model | Caprice | 311 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |
