1970 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1964 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1964 Trabant Universal. (30 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 706 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 1970 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant Universal. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1964 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Trabant |
| Model | SL | Universal |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2030 mm |
