1973 NSU Ro 80 vs. 1956 Opel Kapitan
To start off, 1973 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Opel Kapitan would be higher. At 2,473 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Opel Kapitan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1956 Opel Kapitan. (74 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1956 Opel Kapitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Opel Kapitan weights approximately 5 kg more than 1973 NSU Ro 80.
Because 1956 Opel Kapitan 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 1956 Opel Kapitan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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. 1973 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1956 Opel Kapitan has manual transmission. 1956 Opel Kapitan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 NSU Ro 80 | 1956 Opel Kapitan | |
| Make | NSU | Opel |
| Model | Ro 80 | Kapitan |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 2473 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2760 mm |
