Trabant 11 Overview: Generations and Versions
Overview of the Trabant 11, a cabrio produced in 1990–1991 with 41 hp, covering its single generation and which version to buy.
The Trabant 11 is a cabrio built in 1990–1991, offered with a single 41 hp output across the range. With a manual gearbox, front-wheel drive and a 1.0-litre engine, it suits buyers looking for a simple open-top classic from the final Trabant era rather than everyday performance.
Trabant 11 generations
1 generation
The 1 generation Trabant 11 was produced in 1990–1991 exclusively as a cabrio. All versions deliver 41 hp, and the lineup counts 3 modifications, every one combining a manual gearbox with front-wheel drive. The core engine is a 1043 cc unit, and the 1.0 MT (41 hp) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 22.0 seconds. Because the whole generation shares one power figure, the choice between modifications comes down to equipment rather than mechanics.
The short production window matters when shopping: with only two model years, there are no early or late revisions to compare, so any 1 generation car is technically the same package. That uniformity works in a buyer's favor — the manual-only, FWD-only lineup leaves little room for unusual or hard-to-support configurations.
Which Trabant 11 to buy
- 1.0 MT (41 hp) (1 generation): the volume version of the range, with a 1043 cc engine, 41 hp and a manual gearbox — the most common configuration to find.
- 1.0 MT (41 hp) (1 generation): also the most powerful option offered, since 41 hp is the top of the 41–41 hp range; it reaches 100 km/h in 22.0 seconds.
When buying used, remember that every Trabant 11 dates from 1990–1991, so age is identical across the market and condition is the only real differentiator. The single-generation, manual-only lineup keeps the search simple: there are no rarer drivetrain combinations to weigh against each other.
Summary
The Trabant 11 lineup is unusually compact: one generation, one body style, one 41 hp power output and one transmission type across 3 modifications built in 1990–1991. The 1.0 MT (41 hp), with its 1043 cc engine, front-wheel drive and 22.0-second sprint to 100 km/h, represents the model in full — the choice is less about which version and more about which surviving car is in the best shape.