1990 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 29 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 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (297 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 850 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 1990 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 1990 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (463 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mercedes-Benz S | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
Model | S | 312 |
Year Released | 1990 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5547 cc | 898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 297 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 463 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 70 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94.8 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 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 |