1966 Ginetta G12 vs. 1977 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ginetta G12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ginetta G12 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ginetta G12 (158 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1977 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ginetta G12 should accelerate faster than 1977 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 423 kg more than 1966 Ginetta G12.
Because 1966 Ginetta G12 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 Ginetta G12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1966 Ginetta G12 (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1966 Ginetta G12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 NSU Ro 80. 1977 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1966 Ginetta G12 has manual transmission. 1966 Ginetta G12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ginetta G12 | 1977 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Ginetta | NSU |
| Model | G12 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 787 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 37 L |
