1976 NSU Ro 80 vs. 1959 NSU Prinz I
To start off, 1976 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 NSU Prinz I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 NSU Prinz I would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1976 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (20 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1959 NSU Prinz I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 694 kg more than 1959 NSU Prinz I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 NSU Prinz I 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 1959 NSU Prinz I. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1976 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (41 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1976 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 NSU Prinz I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 NSU Ro 80 | 1959 NSU Prinz I | |
| Make | NSU | NSU |
| Model | Ro 80 | Prinz I |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 583 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 516 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 44 L |
