1970 Opel Manta vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1970 Opel Manta is newer by 9 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 1,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Opel Manta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Opel Manta (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Opel Manta should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Opel Manta weights approximately 264 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 1970 Opel Manta 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 Opel Manta. 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, 1970 Opel Manta (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1970 Opel Manta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Opel Manta | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Opel | Trabant |
| Model | Manta | Universal |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2030 mm |
