1964 Trabant Universal vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1979 Triumph Spitfire is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Triumph Spitfire (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1964 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Triumph Spitfire should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Triumph Spitfire weights approximately 155 kg more than 1964 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Triumph Spitfire 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 1979 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 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, 1979 Triumph Spitfire (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1979 Triumph Spitfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Trabant Universal | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Trabant | Triumph |
| Model | Universal | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 595 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 51 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 24 L | 33 L |
