1961 Trabant Universal vs. 1965 Volvo 120
To start off, 1965 Volvo 120 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 1,776 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Volvo 120 (67 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1965 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Volvo 120 weights approximately 344 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 1965 Volvo 120 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 1965 Volvo 120. 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, 1965 Volvo 120 (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1965 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 1965 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Trabant | Volvo |
| Model | Universal | 120 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1776 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2610 mm |
