2009 Honda Civic vs. 1973 NSU 1000
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (108 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1973 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1973 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 532 kg more than 1973 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 NSU 1000 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 1973 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (152 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1973 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Honda | NSU |
| Model | Civic | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |
