1971 Abarth 595 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1971 Abarth 595 is newer by 10 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 594 cc (2 cylinders), 1971 Abarth 595 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Abarth 595 (27 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Abarth 595 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Trabant Universal weights approximately 196 kg more than 1971 Abarth 595.
Because 1971 Abarth 595 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 1971 Abarth 595. 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, 1971 Abarth 595 (45 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1971 Abarth 595 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Abarth 595 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Abarth | Trabant |
| Model | 595 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2030 mm |
