2008 BMW 120 vs. 1963 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 120 (148 HP) has 99 more horse power than 1963 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1963 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1963 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 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, 2008 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1963 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 120 | 311 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 43 L |
