1961 Trabant Universal vs. 2011 BMW 118
To start off, 2011 BMW 118 is newer by 50 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 118 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 118 weights approximately 829 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 2011 BMW 118 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 2011 BMW 118. 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, 2011 BMW 118 (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 2011 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Trabant | BMW |
| Model | Universal | 118 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2660 mm |
