1980 Lancia Beta vs. 1964 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1980 Lancia Beta is newer by 16 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lancia Beta (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1964 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lancia Beta weights approximately 400 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 1980 Lancia Beta 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 1980 Lancia Beta. 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, 1980 Lancia Beta (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1980 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Beta | 1964 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Lancia | Trabant |
| Model | Beta | Universal |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 24 L |
