1995 BMW Z3 vs. 1976 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1995 BMW Z3 is newer by 19 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 2,390 cc, 1976 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW Z3 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1976 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1995 BMW Z3.
Because 1995 BMW Z3 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 1995 BMW Z3. 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, 1995 BMW Z3 (179 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1995 BMW Z3 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 1995 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW Z3 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:
| 1995 BMW Z3 | 1976 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | Z3 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 37 L |
