2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1959 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1959 Wartburg 311. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1959 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 645 kg more than 1959 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Wartburg 311. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1959 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Wartburg |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 311 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
