1994 BMW M5 vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1994 BMW M5 is newer by 23 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 3,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW M5 (335 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW M5 weights approximately 576 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 1994 BMW M5 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 1994 BMW M5. 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, 1994 BMW M5 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1994 BMW M5 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 1994 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1994 BMW M5 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:
| 1994 BMW M5 | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | M5 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3793 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1786 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
