1963 NSU 1000 LS vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 NSU 1000 LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 NSU 1000 LS would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1963 NSU 1000 LS. (42 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1963 NSU 1000 LS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 540 kg more than 1963 NSU 1000 LS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 NSU 1000 LS 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 LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 NSU 1000 LS. (70 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 NSU 1000 LS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 NSU 1000 LS | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 LS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 42 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.6 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 620 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
