Sweden vs Germany — 1968 vs 1970
| 164 E | Ro 80 Sedan | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | 115 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,978 cc | 995 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 112 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 18.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,097 lbs | 2,668 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 2,860 mm |
| Length | 4,785 mm | 4,780 mm |
| Units Produced | 146,008 | 37,398 |
| Original MSRP | $5,200 | $4,850 |
| Value (Excellent) | $22,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1968 Volvo 164 E brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Sweden and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1968 Volvo 164 E versus 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1968 Volvo 164 E holds a clear advantage in raw power with 160 hp compared to 115 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo 164 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 2,978 cc, while the NSU Ro 80 relies on a Wankel Twin-Rotor with 995 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Volvo 164 E edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 12.8 seconds. The NSU Ro 80 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 429 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 37,398 units built, the 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan is considerably scarcer than the Volvo 164's 146,008 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan commands a significant premium over the 1968 Volvo 164 E, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.