2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC weights approximately 1870 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 Mercedes-Benz CLC 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 Mercedes-Benz CLC. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLC (351 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | CLC | 312 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 70.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 40 L |
