1987 Honda Civic vs. 1970 NSU 1000

To start off, 1987 Honda Civic is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Honda Civic (130 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1970 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1970 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Honda Civic weights approximately 240 kg more than 1970 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 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 1970 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (143 Nm @ 5700 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 NSU 1000. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1987 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 NSU 1000.

Compare all specifications:

1987 Honda Civic 1970 NSU 1000
Make Honda NSU
Model Civic 1000
Year Released 1987 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1590 cc 996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 130 HP 38 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 143 Nm 71 Nm
Torque RPM 5700 RPM 2500 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 900 kg 660 kg
Vehicle Length 3780 mm 3800 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1500 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2210 mm 2260 mm