2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 595 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 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | C | 312 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 70.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 40 L |
