1990 Trabant 1.1 Universal Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Trabant 1.1 Universal weighs 735 kilograms (1620 pounds) when empty or curb weight and has a maximum loaded weight of 1120 kilograms (2469 pounds). This relatively lightweight construction contributes to the car's nimbleness and fuel efficiency but means it lacks the heft and stability of larger vehicles. The lighter frame helps with acceleration and braking but limits its ability to carry very heavy loads compared to larger station wagons.

With the rear seats in position, the Trabant 1.1 Universal offers a luggage capacity of 400 liters (14.1 cubic feet), which is suitable for daily use and modest cargo needs. When the rear seats are folded down, the luggage capacity expands significantly to 1400 liters (49.4 cubic feet), allowing for much larger or bulkier cargo. This flexibility makes the station wagon practical for both passenger transport and cargo hauling.

The Trabant 1.1 Universal is equipped with rims sized 4JX13H-45 and runs on tires sized 145/80 SR13. These relatively small tire and rim sizes are typical for compact city cars of the late 1980s and early 1990s. They contribute to a soft ride and manageable handling on urban roads, which complements the car's overall lightweight design. However, smaller tires may reduce grip and stability at higher speeds or rough terrain.

Yes, the Trabant 1.1 Universal easily fits into a standard residential garage. Its length of 3521 mm (138.6 inches or roughly 2.5 to 3.0 meters) and width of 1528 mm (60.2 inches) fall well within typical garage dimensions. Standard garages usually have a width of 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) and a length of around 5 to 6 meters (16.4 to 19.7 feet), so parking and maneuvering the vehicle inside a garage should pose no problems.

Compared to earlier Trabant models, the 1.1 Universal remains similar in footprint but features modest dimensional improvements mainly in length and height to better accommodate a station wagon layout. While the original Trabant 601 models were slightly shorter and more compact, the 1.1 Universal's more elongated 3521 mm length and increased height of 1420 mm provided improved interior volume, especially for cargo, as evidenced by its rear seat folding capacity. This change aimed to enhance practicality without compromising the Trabant’s characteristic compact charm.

The Trabant 1.1 Universal is smaller and lighter than many contemporaneous compact station wagons from Western manufacturers, which often featured larger dimensions and heavier bodies. Its length of 3521 mm and cargo capacity up to 1400 liters make it exceptionally compact yet surprisingly practical. While rivals may offer more powerful engines and advanced features, the Trabant's extremely lightweight design and modest size appealed to buyers prioritizing simplicity, economy, and ease of maneuvering in congested urban environments.

The Trabant 1.1 Universal's interior is designed to maximize utility within its compact dimensions. Its 5-door station wagon layout allows easy access to both passenger and cargo areas. With a luggage capacity of 400 liters with all seats upright and an expanded 1400 liters with rear seats folded flat, it delivers flexible space for people or goods. Despite modest interior dimensions, the straightforward cabin design emphasizes practicality and ease of use, contributing to the model’s popularity among drivers needing a simple workhorse vehicle in the early 1990s.

Absolutely, the Trabant 1.1 Universal is well-suited for city driving thanks to its compact size and low curb weight of 735 kg (1620 lbs). Its overall length of just 3.5 meters (138.6 inches) and narrow width of 1.5 meters (60.2 inches) enables it to navigate narrow streets and tight parking spaces with ease. The vehicle’s light weight aids maneuverability and fuel efficiency, making it an economical and practical choice for urban users requiring a small yet versatile station wagon.

The Trabant 1.1 Universal comes with 4JX13H-45 rims paired with 145/80 SR13 tires. This relatively small 13-inch wheel and high-profile tire combination promotes ride comfort and absorbs road imperfections effectively, particularly on uneven or rough urban roads common in its production era. While the setup may not provide sporty handling or high-speed stability seen with larger wheels, it is well-balanced for everyday driving, delivering a smooth and controlled driving experience that matches the vehicle's lightweight and utilitarian nature.