2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1964 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1964 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1964 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1014 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 S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1964 Wartburg 312. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1964 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | S | 312 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 43 L |
