1976 NSU Ro 80 vs. 2006 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2006 Panoz Esperante is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Panoz Esperante (420 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1976 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 277 kg more than 1976 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Panoz Esperante 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 Panoz Esperante. 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, 2006 Panoz Esperante (570 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 NSU Ro 80. 1976 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2006 Panoz Esperante has manual transmission. 2006 Panoz Esperante 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 | 2006 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | NSU | Panoz |
| Model | Ro 80 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 4589 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| 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 | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 59 L |
