1975 NSU Ro 80 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1975 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1975 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1975 NSU Ro 80 (163 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1975 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 NSU Ro 80 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | NSU | Wartburg |
| Model | Ro 80 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 898 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 40 L |
