2008 BMW 325 vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 47 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP) has 166 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 500 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 2008 BMW 325 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 325. 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, 2008 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 325 | 311 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 43 L |
