1974 NSU 1000 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 38 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1974 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 890 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, 2012 Mazda 5, 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, 2012 Mazda 5 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 NSU 1000. 2012 Mazda 5 has automatic transmission and 1974 NSU 1000 has manual transmission. 1974 NSU 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 NSU 1000 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | NSU | Mazda |
| Model | 1000 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 994 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2751 mm |
