1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1969 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1969 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,990 cc, 1969 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 1600 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 1959 Abarth 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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. 1969 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 1600 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1969 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Abarth | NSU |
| Model | 1600 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2870 mm |
