1965 NSU 1200 vs. 1970 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 NSU 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 NSU 1200 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1200. (54 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 494 kg more than 1965 NSU 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 NSU 1200 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 1965 NSU 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU 1200. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1970 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU 1200. 1970 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1965 NSU 1200 has manual transmission. 1965 NSU 1200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 NSU 1200 | 1970 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | NSU | NSU |
| Model | 1200 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1177 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 716 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2870 mm |
