2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1870 kg more than 1966 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 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, 1966 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 E (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | E | 312 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 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 | 43 L |
