2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1966 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 311. (50 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1107 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1966 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Ford | Wartburg |
| Model | Explorer | 311 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1966 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 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 | 2077 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 43 L |
