1961 Trabant Universal vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 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 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 214 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Trabant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Universal | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2480 mm |
