2009 Honda Element vs. 1974 NSU 1000
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Element (164 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1974 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU 1000.
Because 1974 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 1974 NSU 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element, 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 Element (161 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1974 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Honda | NSU |
| Model | Element | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |
