Wartburg 353

vs

Wartburg 353

Germany vs East Germany — 1965 vs 1966

Wartburg 353 (1965)
Wartburg 353 (1966)
Specifications
353 Sedan353
Horsepower50 hp
Torque69 lb-ft
Engine Size992 cc992 cc
0-60 mph22.0 sec
Top Speed78 mph
¼ Mile24.5 sec
Weight2,094 lbs
Wheelbase2,450 mm
Length4,285 mm
Units Produced1,186,472
Value (Excellent)$12,000
Collectibility4/105/10
Rarity5/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1965 Wartburg 353 Sedan brings its unique character to the table, and the 1966 Wartburg 353 answers with stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Few model names carry as much weight as the Wartburg 353. The 1965 and 1966 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. Both cars represent compelling choices in their respective segments. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.