1978 Opel Rekord vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Rekord (100 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Rekord weights approximately 454 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 1978 Opel Rekord 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 Rekord. 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, 1978 Opel Rekord (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Rekord | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Opel | Trabant |
| Model | Rekord | Universal |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1978 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 20 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2030 mm |
