2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1976 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 24 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1976 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1976 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 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 2000 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2000 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:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1976 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | Z3 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 1360 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 37 L |
