1980 Renault 18 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1980 Renault 18 is newer by 19 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Renault 18 (63 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Renault 18 weights approximately 324 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Renault 18 (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1980 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 18 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Renault | Trabant |
| Model | 18 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2030 mm |
