1961 Trabant Universal vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1961 Trabant Universal is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (39 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 154 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 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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, 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Trabant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Universal | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2410 mm |
