1963 NSU 1000 C vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 1989 Volvo 480 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 NSU 1000 C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 NSU 1000 C would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1963 NSU 1000 C. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1963 NSU 1000 C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 480 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1963 NSU 1000 C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 NSU 1000 C 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 1963 NSU 1000 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480, 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, 1989 Volvo 480 (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 NSU 1000 C. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 NSU 1000 C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 NSU 1000 C | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | NSU | Volvo |
| Model | 1000 C | 480 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 640 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
