1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 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 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 600 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
Model | SL | Ro 80 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2798 cc | 2390 cc |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 37 L |