1962 Jensen 541 vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1971 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Jensen 541 (130 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Jensen 541 should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Jensen 541 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1971 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Jensen 541 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 1962 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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. Let's talk about torque, 1962 Jensen 541 (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1962 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Jensen 541 | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Jensen | NSU |
| Model | 541 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 82 L |
