1973 NSU 1000 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1973 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 380 kg more than 1973 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 NSU 1000 | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
