2001 BMW M vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP) has 271 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M weights approximately 405 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M 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 2001 BMW M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 311, 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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | M | 311 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 43 L |
