1983 Citroen Mehari vs. 1963 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1983 Citroen Mehari is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 601 cc (2 cylinders), 1983 Citroen Mehari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Citroen Mehari (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1963 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Citroen Mehari should accelerate faster than 1963 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Trabant Universal weights approximately 105 kg more than 1983 Citroen Mehari.
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, 1963 Trabant Universal (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1963 Trabant Universal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Citroen Mehari | 1963 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Citroen | Trabant |
| Model | Mehari | Universal |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 601 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2030 mm |
