1973 BMW 525 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1973 BMW 525 is newer by 12 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 525 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 525 weights approximately 714 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 1973 BMW 525 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 1973 BMW 525. 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, 1973 BMW 525 (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 525 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | BMW | Trabant |
| Model | 525 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2030 mm |
