2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
| Model | SL | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 37 L |
