1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1989 Chrysler Viper is newer by 28 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 353 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 630 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 1989 Chrysler Viper 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 1989 Chrysler Viper. 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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 540 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler Viper | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Wartburg |
| Model | Viper | 312 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
