1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1961 Trabant Universal is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin A 55 (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin A 55 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 55 weights approximately 389 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 1955 Austin A 55 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 1955 Austin A 55. 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, 1955 Austin A 55 (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1955 Austin A 55 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Austin | Trabant |
| Model | A 55 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2030 mm |
