1991 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1991 Suzuki Samurai 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 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Suzuki Samurai (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 24 kg more than 1991 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1991 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Wartburg 312. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Samurai (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1991 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Suzuki Samurai | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Wartburg |
| Model | Samurai | 312 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2460 mm |
