2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 44 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 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 752 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 2005 Ford Thunderbird 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 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Ford | Wartburg |
| Model | Thunderbird | 312 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 40 L |
