1999 BMW 323 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 38 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 791 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 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | BMW | Trabant |
| Model | 323 | Universal |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2030 mm |
