1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1964 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 340 more horse power than 1964 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1964 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 834 kg more than 1964 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 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 SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 499 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1964 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
Model | SL | 312 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1964 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 966 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 43 L |