Wartburg 311
The elegant face of East German motoring.
- Power
- 37 bhp
- Top speed
- 71 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$25k
About the Wartburg 311
Launched in 1956, the Wartburg 311 represented a significant stylistic leap for East Germany, replacing the pre-war-based IFA F9 with a modern, curvaceous body designed by Hans Fleischer. Underneath the stylish exterior sat a traditional separate chassis and a longitudinal three-cylinder two-stroke engine driving the front wheels. While mechanically conservative, its build quality and variety of body styles—including the desirable Camping estate and Sport roadster—made it a successful export to both Eastern and Western markets. It remains a symbol of the GDR's early industrial optimism, prized by collectors for its distinctive 'ring-ding-ding' exhaust note and surprisingly graceful lines.
Wartburg 311 specs
The Wartburg 311 produces 37 bhp (28 kW) and 83 Nm (61 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 71 mph (115 km/h).
| Make | Wartburg |
|---|---|
| Model | 311 |
| Trim | 900 |
| Years | 1956–1965 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | East Germany |
| Engine | 900cc two-stroke inline-3 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 901 cc (0.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 37 bhp (28 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 83 Nm (61 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 71 mph (115 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 920 kg (2,028 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 40 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Wartburg 311 worth?
A typical Wartburg 311 is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $25,000 (about £2,600 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Wartburg 311 rarity in CarSpot
The Wartburg 311 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Wartburg 311 fun facts
- The Wartburg 311's engine has only seven major moving parts: three pistons, three connecting rods, and one crankshaft.
- Despite its modest 37 hp, the 311 was entered into the Rallye Monte Carlo in the late 1950s, successfully reaching the finish line.
- The name 'Wartburg' is taken from the historic Wartburg Castle which overlooks the factory's home city of Eisenach.
