1973 Mercury Comet vs. 1970 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1973 Mercury Comet is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 3,271 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Comet. (83 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercury Comet weights approximately 10 kg more than 1970 NSU Ro 80.
Because 1973 Mercury Comet 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 1973 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 1973 Mercury Comet (205 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercury Comet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercury Comet | 1970 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercury | NSU |
| Model | Comet | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3271 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2870 mm |
