2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP) has 92 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 725 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 311, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | C | 311 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 43 L |
