2009 BMW 120 vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 48 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 859 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 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | BMW | Trabant |
| Model | 120 | Universal |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2030 mm |
