1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1971 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin Mini Cooper would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1971 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 626 kg more than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1971 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1971 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. 1971 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1961 Austin Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 1961 Austin Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin Mini Cooper | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Austin | NSU |
| Model | Mini Cooper | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 37 L |
