2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1960 Wartburg 311. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1960 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 366 kg more than 1960 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Wartburg 311. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | E | 311 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1960 |
| 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 | 350 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
