1961 Trabant Universal vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1996 Volvo V40 is newer by 35 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 574 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, 1996 Volvo V40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Trabant | Volvo |
| Model | Universal | V40 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2570 mm |
