1964 Trabant Universal vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 41 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1964 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 638 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.
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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Trabant Universal | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Trabant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Universal | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 595 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 51 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 24 L | 55 L |
