1985 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1972 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1972 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1972 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1972 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 49 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider (178 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 NSU Ro 80. 1972 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1972 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | NSU |
| Model | Spider | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1960 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 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 | 1161 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 37 L |
