1959 NSU Prinz vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1976 Datsun 280Z is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 NSU Prinz. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 NSU Prinz would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1959 NSU Prinz. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1959 NSU Prinz. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 635 kg more than 1959 NSU Prinz. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 NSU Prinz. (43 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 NSU Prinz. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1959 NSU Prinz has manual transmission. 1959 NSU Prinz will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 NSU Prinz | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | NSU | Datsun |
| Model | Prinz | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 583 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 43 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2304 mm |
