2009 BMW 335 vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2009 BMW 335 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 335 (265 HP) has 216 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 335 weights approximately 675 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 335 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 335. 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 335 (576 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 478 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 335 | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 335 | 311 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 43 L |
