1954 Ford Consul vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1961 Trabant Universal is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Consul. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Consul would be higher. At 1,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Ford Consul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Ford Consul (40 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Ford Consul should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Ford Consul weights approximately 379 kg more than 1961 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Ford Consul 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 1954 Ford Consul. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 1954 Ford Consul (100 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1954 Ford Consul will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ford Consul | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Ford | Trabant |
| Model | Consul | Universal |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1507 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 20 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2030 mm |
