2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1960 Trabant Universal

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 48 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 490 more horse power than 1960 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1960 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1295 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 676 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Trabant Universal.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 1960 Trabant Universal
Make Mercedes-Benz Trabant
Model SL Universal
Year Released 2008 1960
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5439 cc 499 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 510 HP 20 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 3900 RPM
Torque 720 Nm 44 Nm
Torque RPM 2600 RPM 2750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1955 kg 660 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 3370 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1500 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2030 mm


 

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