1978 Lada 1600 vs. 1964 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1978 Lada 1600 is newer by 14 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 1,568 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lada 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lada 1600 (78 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1964 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lada 1600 should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lada 1600 weights approximately 370 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 1978 Lada 1600 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 1978 Lada 1600. 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, 1978 Lada 1600 (122 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 Lada 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lada 1600 | 1964 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Lada | Trabant |
| Model | 1600 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 24 L |
