2002 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 31 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 836 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 512 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
| Model | E | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5438 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2046 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 82 L |
