1981 Lancia Beta vs. 1974 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,388 cc, 1974 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 162 kg more than 1981 Lancia Beta.
Because 1981 Lancia Beta 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 1981 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1981 Lancia Beta (165 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm). This means 1981 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Beta | 1974 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Lancia | NSU |
| Model | Beta | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2388 cc |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1048 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 37 L |
