1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 11 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 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 944 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 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 336 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Trabant |
| Model | Cutlass | Universal |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2030 mm |
