1962 Lotus Elan vs. 1960 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1962 Lotus Elan is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1960 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1960 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Trabant Universal weights approximately 70 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Because 1962 Lotus Elan 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 1962 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1962 Lotus Elan (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elan | 1960 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Lotus | Trabant |
| Model | Elan | Universal |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2030 mm |
