2005 BMW 545 vs. 1963 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2005 BMW 545 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 4,390 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 545 (326 HP) has 277 more horse power than 1963 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1963 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 545 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1963 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 545 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 2005 BMW 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 Wartburg 311, 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, 2005 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 545 | 1963 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 545 | 311 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4390 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 73.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 43 L |
