2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1975 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (470 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1975 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1975 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 710 kg more than 1975 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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 Mercedes-Benz CLS (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 537 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 NSU Ro 80. (163 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1975 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
| Model | CLS | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 470 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1920 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 37 L |
