1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper is newer by 36 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (415 HP) has 379 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 546 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 1997 Dodge Viper 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 1997 Dodge Viper. 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, 1997 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 583 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Dodge | Wartburg |
| Model | Viper | 312 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 36 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 70.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 40 L |
