1965 Trabant Universal vs. 1962 MG MGA
To start off, 1965 Trabant Universal is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 MG MGA (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1965 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1965 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 MG MGA weights approximately 240 kg more than 1965 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 MG MGA 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 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 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 MG MGA (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1962 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Trabant Universal | 1962 MG MGA | |
| Make | Trabant | MG |
| Model | Universal | MGA |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 595 cc | 1489 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 | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2390 mm |
