1978 Opel Kadett vs. 1964 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1978 Opel Kadett 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 992 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Kadett (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1964 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Kadett weights approximately 160 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 Opel Kadett 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 Opel Kadett. 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 Opel Kadett (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Kadett | 1964 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Opel | Trabant |
| Model | Kadett | Universal |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 24 L |
