1968 Maserati Mistral vs. 1977 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Maserati Mistral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Maserati Mistral would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Maserati Mistral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Maserati Mistral (253 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1977 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Maserati Mistral should accelerate faster than 1977 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Maserati Mistral weights approximately 55 kg more than 1977 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Maserati Mistral 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 Maserati Mistral. 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, 1968 Maserati Mistral (363 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1968 Maserati Mistral 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 1968 Maserati Mistral has manual transmission. 1968 Maserati Mistral 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:
| 1968 Maserati Mistral | 1977 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Maserati | NSU |
| Model | Mistral | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2870 mm |
