1991 BMW M12 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 30 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Because 1991 BMW M12 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 1991 BMW M12. 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 369 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | M12 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 70.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2460 mm |
