1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1977 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 770 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lotus Seven 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 1959 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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. 1977 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Seven | 1977 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Lotus | NSU |
| Model | Seven | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 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 | 440 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2870 mm |
