2003 BMW X3 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 970 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Wartburg 312. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | X3 | 312 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 898 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 | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 40 L |
