1967 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 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 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 634 kg more than 1961 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Trabant |
| Model | SL | Universal |
| Year Released | 1967 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2030 mm |
