1985 Volvo 245 vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1985 Volvo 245 is newer by 25 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 245 (96 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1960 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Because 1985 Volvo 245 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 1985 Volvo 245. 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, 1985 Volvo 245 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Wartburg 311. (99 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volvo 245 | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Volvo | Wartburg |
| Model | 245 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2460 mm |
