1971 NSU 1000 vs. 1985 Holden Barina
To start off, 1985 Holden Barina is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 996 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 NSU 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Holden Barina (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1971 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Holden Barina should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 NSU 1000 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1985 Holden Barina.
Because 1971 NSU 1000 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 1971 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Holden Barina, 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, 1985 Holden Barina (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Holden Barina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 NSU 1000. 1985 Holden Barina has automatic transmission and 1971 NSU 1000 has manual transmission. 1971 NSU 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Holden Barina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 NSU 1000 | 1985 Holden Barina | |
| Make | NSU | Holden |
| Model | 1000 | Barina |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2250 mm |
