1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 is newer by 22 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 (122 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 434 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 (178 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Trabant |
| Model | 190 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2030 mm |
