1957 Ford 17M vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1961 Trabant Universal is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford 17M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford 17M would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Ford 17M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Ford 17M (59 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Ford 17M should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Ford 17M weights approximately 449 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 1957 Ford 17M 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 1957 Ford 17M. 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, 1957 Ford 17M (129 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm). This means 1957 Ford 17M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Ford 17M | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Ford | Trabant |
| Model | 17M | Universal |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2030 mm |
