1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1960 Wartburg 311. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1960 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 300 kg more than 1960 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Wartburg 311. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Wartburg |
| Model | Sonata | 311 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
