1961 NSU Prinz IV vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 51 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1473 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 1961 NSU Prinz IV 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 1961 NSU Prinz IV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (44 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1961 NSU Prinz IV has manual transmission. 1961 NSU Prinz IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 NSU Prinz IV | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prinz IV | Routan |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 598 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 78 L |
