1983 BMW 525 vs. 1974 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1983 BMW 525 is newer by 9 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 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 525 (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1974 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 525 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1974 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 525 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 1983 BMW 525. 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, 1983 BMW 525 (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 NSU Ro 80. 1974 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 1974 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 525 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2388 cc |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 37 L |
