1998 BMW 318 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 37 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 315 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 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | BMW | Wartburg |
Model | 318 | 312 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 70 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |