1968 Fiat 850 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1968 Fiat 850 is newer by 7 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 841 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Fiat 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Fiat 850 (41 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Fiat 850 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Fiat 850 weights approximately 60 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 1968 Fiat 850 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 1968 Fiat 850. 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, 1968 Fiat 850 (60 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1968 Fiat 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 850 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Fiat | Trabant |
| Model | 850 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 841 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2030 mm |
