2005 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1966 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 311. (50 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1455 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Wartburg 311. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 G (525 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz G | 1966 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | G | 311 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1966 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2425 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 99 L | 43 L |
