1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1958 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP) has 268 more horse power than 1958 Wartburg 312. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1958 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1034 kg more than 1958 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Wartburg 312. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1958 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | S | 312 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2460 mm |
