1976 NSU Ro 80 vs. 1965 NSU 1200
To start off, 1976 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 NSU 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 NSU 1200 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 60 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1200. (54 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 494 kg more than 1965 NSU 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 NSU 1200 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 1965 NSU 1200. 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 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU 1200. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU 1200. 1976 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1965 NSU 1200 has manual transmission. 1965 NSU 1200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 NSU Ro 80 | 1965 NSU 1200 | |
| Make | NSU | NSU |
| Model | Ro 80 | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 1177 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2440 mm |
