2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 38 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, both vehicles can yield 188 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 82 L |
