2002 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1964 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 3,224 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1964 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1964 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 769 kg more than 1964 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 Wartburg 312, 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 Mercedes-Benz E (479 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 398 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 1964 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | E | 312 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3224 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 479 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 43 L |
