2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1965 NSU 1200
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 NSU 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 NSU 1200 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (149 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1200. (54 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 699 kg more than 1965 NSU 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 NSU 1200 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 1965 NSU 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU 1200. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1965 NSU 1200 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | NSU |
| Model | Spider | 1200 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1177 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 133 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
