1990 BMW 320 vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1990 BMW 320 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1971 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 320 (115 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 320 weights approximately 26 kg more than 1971 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 320 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 1990 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1990 BMW 320 (224 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm). This means 1990 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 NSU Ro 80. 1971 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 320 | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 320 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
