1981 Skoda Rapid R vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1981 Skoda Rapid R is newer by 20 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Skoda Rapid R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Skoda Rapid R (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Skoda Rapid R should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Skoda Rapid R weights approximately 186 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 1981 Skoda Rapid R 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 1981 Skoda Rapid R. 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, 1981 Skoda Rapid R (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Skoda Rapid R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Skoda Rapid R | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Skoda | Trabant |
| Model | Rapid R | Universal |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2850 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2030 mm |
