1973 NSU Ro 80 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 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 2,390 cc, 1973 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 114 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1097 kg more than 1973 NSU Ro 80.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU Ro 80. 1973 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ro 80 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 1984 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 55 L |
