1961 Abarth 600 vs. 1960 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1961 Abarth 600 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 847 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Abarth 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Abarth 600 (47 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1960 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Abarth 600 should accelerate faster than 1960 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Trabant Universal weights approximately 65 kg more than 1961 Abarth 600.
Because 1961 Abarth 600 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 1961 Abarth 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1961 Abarth 600 (66 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1961 Abarth 600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 600 | 1960 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Abarth | Trabant |
| Model | 600 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2030 mm |
