2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1960 Wartburg 311. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1960 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 595 kg more than 1960 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Wartburg 311. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | C | 311 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 70.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 43 L |
