2006 BMW 523 vs. 1973 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1973 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1973 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 422 kg more than 1973 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU Ro 80. 1973 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 1973 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 523 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 37 L |
