2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | Z4 | 312 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
