1961 Trabant Universal vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal.
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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Trabant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Universal | GTI |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| 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 | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2578 mm |
