2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 41 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 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP) has 140 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 420 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 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda RX-8 | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
Make | Mazda | Wartburg |
Model | RX-8 | 311 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1961 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2615 cc | 992 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 220 Nm | 98 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 43 L |