1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 38 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 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1960 Wartburg 311. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1960 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 486 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Wartburg 311. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Wartburg |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 311 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 960 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
