1974 NSU 1000 vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 1988 Saab 9000 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1974 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1974 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 NSU 1000 | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | NSU | Saab |
| Model | 1000 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 994 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |
