1980 Opel Ascona vs. 1964 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1980 Opel Ascona 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Opel Ascona (57 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1964 Trabant Universal. (30 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Opel Ascona weights approximately 356 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 Opel Ascona 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 Opel Ascona. 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 Opel Ascona (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant Universal. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Opel Ascona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Opel Ascona | 1964 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Opel | Trabant |
| Model | Ascona | Universal |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 24 L |
