1961 Trabant Universal vs. 1977 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1977 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 16 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chrysler 1609 (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 424 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 1977 Chrysler 1609 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 1977 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1977 Chrysler 1609 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1977 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 1977 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Trabant | Chrysler |
| Model | Universal | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2670 mm |
