2003 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 480 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Saab 03-Sep (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saab 03-Sep | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Saab | Wartburg |
| Model | 03-Sep | 312 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 40 L |
