2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,388 cc, 1974 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 30 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, 1974 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 NSU Ro 80. 1974 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2388 cc |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 37 L |
