1971 BMW 3 vs. 1970 NSU 1200
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 NSU 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 NSU 1200 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1970 NSU 1200. (85 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1970 NSU 1200.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 NSU 1200. (81 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 NSU 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1970 NSU 1200 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 3 | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2240 mm |
