1978 BMW M1 vs. 1976 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1978 BMW M1 is newer by 2 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 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1976 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW M1 weights approximately 90 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 1978 BMW M1 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 1978 BMW M1. 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 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 1978 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW M1 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:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1976 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | M1 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 37 L |
