1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1958 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 40 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1958 Wartburg 312. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1958 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 448 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Wartburg 312. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1958 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Wartburg |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 312 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
