1978 Honda Civic vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1978 Honda Civic is newer by 17 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 1,169 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Honda Civic (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Honda Civic weights approximately 12 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Honda Civic (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Honda Civic | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Honda | Trabant |
| Model | Civic | Universal |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2030 mm |
