1986 Volvo 245 vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1986 Volvo 245 is newer by 26 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), 1986 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 245 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1960 Wartburg 311. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Because 1986 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 1986 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, 1986 Volvo 245 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Wartburg 311. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volvo 245 | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Volvo | Wartburg |
| Model | 245 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 70.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2460 mm |
