It's a combination of things. Engineering tolerances/accuracy, wear, maintenance, lubrication (or lack of it) can result in a perceived difference in the way re-buildable joints feel compared to classic Cardan joints.

The availablity of both types is often a tuning option for 1/8th Buggies and Truggies.




However, the input/output function of both types is technically the same.

Because universal joints are accepted as having lower friction, they are generally recommended on tracks which are lower traction.

Both are technically the same but different designed