2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 4,798 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (279 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 301 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 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express. 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 Chevrolet Express (399 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Express | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Wartburg |
| Model | Express | 312 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4798 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6210 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2090 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3940 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 40 L |
