1961 NSU Prinz IV vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 NSU Prinz IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 NSU Prinz IV would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 225 kg more than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (44 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 NSU Prinz IV | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prinz IV | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 598 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2480 mm |
