1981 Skoda Rapid R vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1981 Skoda Rapid R is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Skoda Rapid R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Skoda Rapid R (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Skoda Rapid R should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 108 kg more than 1981 Skoda Rapid R.
Because 1981 Skoda Rapid R 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 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Wartburg 312, 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 Skoda Rapid R (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1981 Skoda Rapid R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Skoda Rapid R | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Skoda | Wartburg |
| Model | Rapid R | 312 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2850 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 43 L |
