1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1973 NSU 1000
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (56 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1973 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1973 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 323 weights approximately 306 kg more than 1973 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 NSU 1000 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 1973 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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 Mazda 323 (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1973 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | 323 | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2260 mm |
