1961 Trabant Universal vs. 1958 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1961 Trabant Universal is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 900 cc (3 cylinders), 1958 Wartburg 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Wartburg 312 (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Wartburg 312 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 294 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.
Let's talk about torque, 1958 Wartburg 312 (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1958 Wartburg 312 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 1958 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Trabant | Wartburg |
| Model | Universal | 312 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2460 mm |
