1990 Plymouth Laser vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1990 Plymouth Laser 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 1,755 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Plymouth Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Plymouth Laser (91 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Plymouth Laser should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Plymouth Laser weights approximately 190 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.
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, 1990 Plymouth Laser (142 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1990 Plymouth Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Plymouth Laser | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Plymouth | Wartburg |
| Model | Laser | 312 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2460 mm |
