2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1969 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1969 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1969 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 326 kg more than 1969 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 NSU Ro 80. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 NSU Ro 80. 1969 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 1969 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
| Model | C | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 82 L |
