2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 386 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 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Wartburg 311. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Wartburg |
| Model | Jetta | 311 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
