1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 1974 NSU 1000
To start off, 1988 Dodge Spirit is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Spirit (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1974 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 694 kg more than 1974 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 1974 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Dodge | NSU |
| Model | Spirit | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |
