2004 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 43 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 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette (339 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 560 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 2004 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2004 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette (483 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 401 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Corvette | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Wartburg |
| Model | Corvette | 312 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5665 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 483 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 40 L |
