2003 BMW 520 vs. 1968 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1968 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1968 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1968 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1968 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 NSU Ro 80. 1968 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1968 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 520 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 37 L |
