1998 Honda Civic vs. 1961 Trabant Universal

To start off, 1998 Honda Civic is newer by 37 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda Civic (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda Civic weights approximately 289 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, 1998 Honda Civic (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Honda Civic 1961 Trabant Universal
Make Honda Trabant
Model Civic Universal
Year Released 1998 1961
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1396 cc 499 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 20 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 3900 RPM
Torque 110 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 955 kg 666 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 3370 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1500 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2030 mm