2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1977 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1977 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1977 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1977 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 NSU Ro 80. 1977 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1977 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | RX-8 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 37 L |
