1948 Simca 8 vs. 1965 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1965 Trabant Universal is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Simca 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Simca 8 would be higher. At 1,220 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Simca 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Simca 8 (49 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1965 Trabant Universal. (23 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Simca 8 should accelerate faster than 1965 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Simca 8 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1965 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Simca 8 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 1948 Simca 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 Trabant Universal, 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, 1948 Simca 8 (88 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm). This means 1948 Simca 8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Simca 8 | 1965 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Simca | Trabant |
| Model | 8 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1220 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 23 HP |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2030 mm |
