1977 NSU Ro 80 vs. 1961 NSU Prinz IV
To start off, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 NSU Prinz IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 NSU Prinz IV would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 NSU Prinz IV 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 1961 NSU Prinz IV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1977 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (44 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1977 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. 1977 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1961 NSU Prinz IV has manual transmission. 1961 NSU Prinz IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 NSU Ro 80 | 1961 NSU Prinz IV | |
| Make | NSU | NSU |
| Model | Ro 80 | Prinz IV |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 598 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2050 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 37 L |
