1977 NSU Ro 80 vs. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus
To start off, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus (150 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1977 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus should accelerate faster than 1977 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus.
Because 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. 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, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 NSU Ro 80. 1977 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus has manual transmission. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 | 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus | |
| Make | NSU | Talbot |
| Model | Ro 80 | Sunbeam-Lotus |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 2170 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 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 | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 40 L |
