1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1955 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1955 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1955 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1955 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 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1955 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mazda | Wartburg |
| Model | 323 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
