1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1981 Nissan Skyline is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Skyline (89 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1960 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1960 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 75 kg more than 1960 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Skyline 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 1981 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1981 Nissan Skyline (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Wartburg 311. (99 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Nissan | Wartburg |
| Model | Skyline | 311 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
