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Wartburg 313: sporty Eisenach roadster, rarity and buying guide
Wartburg 313 — the sporty late-1960s version from the Eisenach factory, produced in very limited numbers. We take a look at what makes it special and what to check when buying this rare classic car.
Wartburg 313 in brief
Wartburg 313 — a two-seater sports car (roadster, with a hardtop in some versions), produced by VEB Automobilwerk Eisenach. It was made in limited numbers — fewer than 500 units.
Due to its limited production run, the 313 is a rare, expensive collector's car, not your average run-of-the-mill model. Spotting one in Lithuania is practically impossible.
What sets the 313 apart
Unlike standard Wartburg sedans, the 313 features a sporty, low two-seater body with a sleek shape. It was designed for driving pleasure and shows, not for daily commuting.
You'll most commonly find two main body styles — the open roadster and the coupé with a hardtop. Differences between examples can vary, so it's crucial to check the paperwork.
Engine and transmission
Like other Wartburgs of the time, the 313 came with a three-cylinder, two-stroke engine of around 1.0 litre, paired with a manual gearbox. Power output is around 50 hp, so performance is modest, but the car is light.
Maintaining a two-stroke engine requires mixing oil and fuel. Parts can be hard to find, so you'll need to hunt around specialist clubs or suppliers.
What to check when buying a Wartburg 313
First and foremost — authenticity. Since the car is very rare, check the manufacturer's plate, VIN, and documents. Some cars might be converted from other Wartburg versions.
Body corrosion, chassis condition, engine smoke, and clutch work. It's recommended to consult the Wartburg club or a specialist who can help evaluate the car.
Trim levels
This model doesn't feature a modern trim system; therefore, we'll describe it generally.
Sportinė versija
1957–1960A sporty two-seater roadster or coupé, produced in small numbers.
- Two seats
- Two-stroke three-cylinder engine
- Sporty, low-slung shape
Comparison with a family saloon
| Wartburg 313 | Wartburg 312 sedanas | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Collectors | Classic motoring |
| Body | Two-seat sports car | Four-door saloon |
| Rarity | Very large | Mid-sized |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€ |
313 — a collector's choice due to its rarity. For practical classic motoring, a standard saloon is more suitable.
Pros
- Rare and unique
- Sporty looks
- Simple technical design
- Collector's value
Cons
- Very hard to find
- Two-stroke engine requires special maintenance
- Shortage of parts and specialists
Frequently asked questions
Is the Wartburg 313 rare?
Yes. Fewer than 500 units were produced, making it a hard car to come by.
What engine does the 313 have?
A three-cylinder two-stroke, roughly 1.0-litre in capacity, with around 50hp.
How can you tell if a 313 is genuine?
Check the VIN, factory records, and paperwork; best to consult with a club or specialist.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
