1965 NSU 1200 vs. 1987 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1987 Opel Kadett is newer by 22 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Opel Kadett (129 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1200. (54 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Opel Kadett weights approximately 258 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, 1987 Opel Kadett, 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, 1987 Opel Kadett (180 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU 1200. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 NSU 1200 | 1987 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | NSU | Opel |
| Model | 1200 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1177 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 716 kg | 974 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2530 mm |
