2009 BMW M3 vs. 1970 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 299 more horse power than 1970 NSU Ro 80. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1970 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1970 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 NSU Ro 80. 1970 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1970 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | M3 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 37 L |
