1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1975 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1975 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 (238 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1975 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1975 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1975 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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. Let's talk about torque, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 (271 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 NSU Ro 80. (163 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 NSU Ro 80. 1975 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1975 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
| Model | 300 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 37 L |
