2001 Caterham Beaulieu vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2001 Caterham Beaulieu is newer by 30 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 2,390 cc, 1971 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 685 kg more than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Caterham Beaulieu 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 2001 Caterham Beaulieu. 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, 1971 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu. (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu. 1971 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2001 Caterham Beaulieu has manual transmission. 2001 Caterham Beaulieu 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:
| 2001 Caterham Beaulieu | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Caterham | NSU |
| Model | Beaulieu | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 525 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 37 L |
