1961 Trabant Universal vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is newer by 17 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 1,714 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis (74 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis weights approximately 634 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 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Trabant Universal. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis (136 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Trabant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Universal | Iltis |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2110 mm |
