1987 Citroen CX vs. 1965 NSU 1200
To start off, 1987 Citroen CX is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 NSU 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 NSU 1200 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Citroen CX (137 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1200. (54 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Citroen CX should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Citroen CX weights approximately 704 kg more than 1965 NSU 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 NSU 1200 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 1965 NSU 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Citroen CX, 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, 1987 Citroen CX (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU 1200. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen CX | 1965 NSU 1200 | |
| Make | Citroen | NSU |
| Model | CX | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1177 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2440 mm |
