1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 560 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 312, 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
Model | S | 312 |
Year Released | 1988 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2599 cc | 898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 70 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |