1973 NSU 1000 vs. 2004 Honda Civic
To start off, 2004 Honda Civic is newer by 31 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 1,667 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda Civic (99 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1973 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1973 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Civic weights approximately 180 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, 2004 Honda Civic, 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, 2004 Honda Civic (152 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU 1000. 2004 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1973 NSU 1000 has manual transmission. 1973 NSU 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 NSU 1000 | 2004 Honda Civic | |
| Make | NSU | Honda |
| Model | 1000 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1667 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2690 mm |
