1991 BMW M12 vs. 1976 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1976 NSU Ro 80.
Because 1991 BMW M12 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 1991 BMW M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 NSU Ro 80. 1976 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1976 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | M12 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2860 mm |
