1998 McLaren F1 vs. 1960 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1998 McLaren F1 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 6,063 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 McLaren F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 McLaren F1 (618 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 598 more horse power than 1960 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 McLaren F1 should accelerate faster than 1960 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 McLaren F1 weights approximately 516 kg more than 1960 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 McLaren F1 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 1998 McLaren F1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1998 McLaren F1 (649 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 605 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 McLaren F1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 McLaren F1 | 1960 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | McLaren | Trabant |
| Model | F1 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6063 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 618 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 649 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2030 mm |
