2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1962 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1962 Wartburg 311. (49 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1962 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 454 kg more than 1962 Wartburg 311. 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1962 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Wartburg |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 311 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1424 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 43 L |
