1986 Ford Taurus vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1986 Ford Taurus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Taurus (101 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Taurus weights approximately 430 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Ford Taurus (187 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Ford | Wartburg |
| Model | Taurus | 311 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2460 mm |
