1983 BMW 316 vs. 1963 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1983 BMW 316 is newer by 20 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 1,765 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 316 (88 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1963 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1963 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 316 weights approximately 20 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 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. 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, 1983 BMW 316 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 1963 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 316 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 73.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
