1998 Opel Astra vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 504 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 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Opel | Trabant |
| Model | Astra | Universal |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2030 mm |
