2008 BMW 318 vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1971 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 2008 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 318 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 82 L |
