1965 NSU 1200 vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1972 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 7 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 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (185 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1200. (54 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 937 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (434 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU 1200. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU 1200. 1972 Pontiac Firebird 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. 1972 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 NSU 1200 | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | NSU | Pontiac |
| Model | 1200 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1177 cc | 6598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 7.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 133 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 716 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2750 mm |
