2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 660 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 312. 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Wartburg |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 312 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 43 L |
