1971 BMW 3 vs. 1964 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 7 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1964 Trabant Universal. (30 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 726 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 1971 BMW 3 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 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant Universal. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1964 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | BMW | Trabant |
| Model | 3 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2030 mm |
