2008 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1965 Trabant Universal
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 487 more horse power than 1965 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1965 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1525 kg more than 1965 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (831 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 780 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1965 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Trabant |
| Model | CL | Universal |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 831 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2185 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2030 mm |
