1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1972 NSU Ro 80

To start off, 1972 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1972 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 280 kg more than 1972 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1968 Chevrolet Nova 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 1968 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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 Chevrolet Nova (318 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 NSU Ro 80. 1972 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1968 Chevrolet Nova has manual transmission. 1968 Chevrolet Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Chevrolet Nova 1972 NSU Ro 80
Make Chevrolet NSU
Model Nova Ro 80
Year Released 1968 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5025 cc 2390 cc
Horse Power 130 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 318 Nm 162 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1210 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2860 mm