1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 35 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 307 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 716 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
Model | E | 312 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 343 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 480 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 70.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1676 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |