1966 BMW 1602 vs. 1968 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1968 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 BMW 1602. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 BMW 1602 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1968 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1966 BMW 1602. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1966 BMW 1602. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1966 BMW 1602. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 BMW 1602 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 1966 BMW 1602. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 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, 1968 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 BMW 1602. (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1968 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 BMW 1602. 1968 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1966 BMW 1602 has manual transmission. 1966 BMW 1602 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 BMW 1602 | 1968 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 1602 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1574 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 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 | 940 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 37 L |
