2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1965 Trabant Universal
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 44 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 638 more horse power than 1965 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1965 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 705 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 949 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1965 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Trabant |
| Model | SL | Universal |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 661 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2030 mm |
