Germany vs Germany — 1970 vs 1968
| Ro 80 Sedan | Prinz 1000 TT | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 115 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 115 lb-ft | 63 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.8 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 96 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,668 lbs | 1,554 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,860 mm | 2,020 mm |
| Length | 4,780 mm | 3,780 mm |
| Units Produced | 37,398 | 2,400 |
| Original MSRP | $4,850 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1968 NSU Prinz 1000 TT counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
Within the NSU stable, the 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan and 1968 NSU Prinz 1000 TT represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the NSU badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan holds a clear advantage in raw power with 115 hp compared to 70 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the NSU Ro 80 uses a Wankel Twin-Rotor displacing 995 cc, while the NSU Prinz 1000 relies on a Inline-4 OHC with 996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan edges ahead at 12.8 seconds versus 14.5 seconds. The NSU Prinz 1000 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1114 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,400 units built, the 1968 NSU Prinz 1000 TT is considerably scarcer than the NSU Ro 80's 37,398 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 NSU Ro 80 Sedan commands a significant premium over the 1968 NSU Prinz 1000 TT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.