1973 NSU Ro 80 vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1974 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1973 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1973 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 375 kg more than 1973 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Pontiac Firebird 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 NSU Ro 80 | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | NSU | Pontiac |
| Model | Ro 80 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 5792 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2750 mm |
