1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1970 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1970 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 1970 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1970 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | 323 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2870 mm |
