1961 Trabant Universal vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 49 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 473 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Trabant | Mazda |
| Model | Universal | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2329 mm |
