1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1973 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1973 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 970 kg more than 1973 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1973 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
| Model | S | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5985 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 37 L |
