1980 Buick Electra vs. 1963 Wartburg 311

To start off, 1980 Buick Electra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Buick Electra (123 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1963 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1963 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Buick Electra weights approximately 720 kg more than 1963 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 Buick Electra 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 1980 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 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, 1980 Buick Electra (278 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Wartburg 311.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Buick Electra 1963 Wartburg 311
Make Buick Wartburg
Model Electra 311
Year Released 1980 1963
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4129 cc 992 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 123 HP 49 HP
Torque 278 Nm 98 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 970 kg
Vehicle Length 5650 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 3030 mm 2460 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 95 L 43 L