1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1970 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1949 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Fiat 500 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 1949 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 NSU Ro 80, 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. 1970 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1949 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1949 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 1970 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Fiat | NSU |
| Model | 500 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 37 L |
