2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1971 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1,990 cc, 1971 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 320 kg more than 1971 NSU Ro 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU Ro 80. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1971 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
| Model | C | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 82 L |
