1973 Fiat 500 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1973 Fiat 500 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. Both 1973 Fiat 500 and 1961 Trabant Universal are equipped with a 499 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Trabant Universal (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Trabant Universal should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Trabant Universal weights approximately 156 kg more than 1973 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. 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, 1961 Trabant Universal (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1961 Trabant Universal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Fiat | Trabant |
| Model | 500 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 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 |
