1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1972 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 172 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1972 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1972 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 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 Weight | 1038 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 37 L |
