1969 Wartburg 353 Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Wartburg 353 has a curb weight ranging between 920 and 960 kilograms (2028 to 2116 pounds), which is relatively light, contributing to its fuel efficiency and ease of handling. The maximum allowed weight, including passengers and cargo, is 1320 kilograms (2910 pounds). This margin allows the car to carry a reasonable amount of luggage and passengers without compromising performance or safety.

The luggage capacity of the Wartburg 353 is approximately 525 liters (about 18.5 cubic feet), which is quite spacious for a sedan of its size and era. This large trunk space makes it practical for family trips, grocery shopping, or carrying equipment, enhancing the vehicle's utility for everyday driving and moderate travel needs.

The Wartburg 353 is equipped with 13-inch rims, paired with tire sizes 165/70 R13 or 170/70 R13. These tire dimensions provide a balance between comfort and handling. The relatively narrow tire width helps with fuel economy and reduces rolling resistance, while the taller sidewalls contribute to a smoother ride by effectively absorbing road imperfections.

Yes, the Wartburg 353 fits comfortably into a standard garage. Typical single-car garages measure about 2.4 to 2.7 meters (7.9 to 8.9 feet) in width and around 4.8 to 6 meters (15.7 to 19.7 feet) in length. With its length of 4.22 meters (13.85 feet) and width of 1.64 meters (5.38 feet), it allows enough clearance for doors to open and for maneuvering within a typical garage.

The Wartburg 353 followed Wartburg's earlier 311 model and introduced a notable increase in dimensions and modern styling. The 353 is longer, wider, and slightly taller than its predecessors, offering more interior space and improved comfort. This generation enhanced usability with better luggage capacity and overall roominess, marking a significant evolution from the more compact and utilitarian earlier Wartburgs.

The Wartburg 353 is relatively compact compared to many Western sedans of the late 1960s and 1970s but is competitive among Eastern European and economy cars of the time. Its dimensions (4220 mm length, 1640 mm width) place it slightly smaller than models like the Volkswagen Type 3 or Opel Kadett but with comparable luggage space. This balance made the 353 a practical choice for buyers desiring moderate size with decent interior volume.

The Wartburg 353's moderate dimensions, combined with a relatively light curb weight between 920 and 960 kg (2028 to 2116 lbs), contribute positively to its fuel efficiency and nimble handling. Its size allows for easier maneuverability in tight urban environments, while its weight helps reduce fuel consumption, which was a significant factor for drivers in the Eastern Bloc where fuel economy was often a priority.

Yes, the Wartburg 353's dimensions provide a comfortable seating environment for up to five passengers. The relatively broad width of 1640 mm (64.6 inches) allows for reasonable space in the cabin. Coupled with its moderately tall height of 1495 mm (58.9 inches), the car offers sufficient headroom and shoulder room, making it suitable for families or groups requiring comfortable seating on short to medium-length trips.

The Wartburg 353 originally used 13-inch rims with tire sizes of 165/70 R13 or 170/70 R13. These sizes balance ride comfort and handling for the car's specifications. Modern tires in these dimensions are readily available and can be used without issue, often benefiting from improved rubber compounds and construction technologies that enhance durability and performance while preserving the original ride quality.