2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 1194 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 Chevrolet SSR 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Wartburg |
| Model | SSR | 312 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |
