1985 BMW 316 vs. 1955 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1985 BMW 316 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,573 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW 316 (86 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1955 Wartburg 311. (36 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1955 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW 316 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1955 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1985 BMW 316 (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Wartburg 311. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1985 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 316 | 1955 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 316 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 36 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
