2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 875 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Wartburg 312, 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 E (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 478 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | E | 312 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 43 L |
