1975 NSU Ro 80 vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 NSU Ro 80 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 14 more horse power than 2006 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Smart Roadster 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 2006 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1975 NSU Ro 80 (163 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1975 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster. 1975 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2006 Smart Roadster has manual transmission. 2006 Smart Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 NSU Ro 80 | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | NSU | Smart |
| Model | Ro 80 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 696 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 35 L |
