2009 BMW 125 vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 48 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP) has 166 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 356 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 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 2009 BMW 125 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 125 | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 125 | 311 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 43 L |
