2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1968 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1968 NSU Ro 80. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1968 NSU Ro 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 15 kg more than 1968 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 CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 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 CLS (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 NSU Ro 80. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 NSU Ro 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1968 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | NSU |
| Model | CLS | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 37 L |
