Overlooked Cars
Discussion
The NSU Ro 80
Wikipedia says, "The NSU Ro 80 was a technologically advanced large sedan-type automobile produced by the German firm of NSU from 1967 until 1977. Most notable was the powertrain; a 113 bhp, 995 cc twin-rotor wankel engine driving the front wheels through a semi-automatic transmission employing an innovative vacuum system. It was voted Car of the Year for 1968 by European motoring writers.
"Unfortunately for NSU, the car developed an early reputation for unreliability, from which it would never escape. The rotary engine in particular suffered from construction faults, among many other problems, and some early cars required a rebuilt engine before 30,000 miles, with problems visible as early as 15,000 miles. The NSU's unpopularity caused by the above problems means that surviving examples are very rare, and are now considered highly-prized classic cars with values to match, particularly thanks to Mazda's perseverance with rotary design, the tip seal problem has been all but eradicated.
"The car featured an automatic clutch which was commonly described as a three-speed semi-automatic gearbox: there was no clutch pedal, but instead, on top of the gearknob, an electric switch that operated a vacuum system which disengaged the clutch. The gear lever itself then could be moved through a standard 'H pattern' gate."
Wikipedia says, "The NSU Ro 80 was a technologically advanced large sedan-type automobile produced by the German firm of NSU from 1967 until 1977. Most notable was the powertrain; a 113 bhp, 995 cc twin-rotor wankel engine driving the front wheels through a semi-automatic transmission employing an innovative vacuum system. It was voted Car of the Year for 1968 by European motoring writers.
"Unfortunately for NSU, the car developed an early reputation for unreliability, from which it would never escape. The rotary engine in particular suffered from construction faults, among many other problems, and some early cars required a rebuilt engine before 30,000 miles, with problems visible as early as 15,000 miles. The NSU's unpopularity caused by the above problems means that surviving examples are very rare, and are now considered highly-prized classic cars with values to match, particularly thanks to Mazda's perseverance with rotary design, the tip seal problem has been all but eradicated.
"The car featured an automatic clutch which was commonly described as a three-speed semi-automatic gearbox: there was no clutch pedal, but instead, on top of the gearknob, an electric switch that operated a vacuum system which disengaged the clutch. The gear lever itself then could be moved through a standard 'H pattern' gate."
Years ago, one of my mates had a mk1 Fiesta 1.3 Ghia (1979 T reg.), and I couldn't believe how well that thing went! It turned out that the Ghia's had the same (or very similar) engines as the sport and later Supersport models (weber twin choke carbs. as standard).
Well, it surprised me anyway how sprightly it was. Just didn't expect it...
Well, it surprised me anyway how sprightly it was. Just didn't expect it...
It's a Nissan Stagea not a Stage. I think they did come with the 26TT engine... but heck, it is fugly! Insurance companies used to insure it very cheaply, a mate of a mate had one, then they realised and put it up to Skyline GTR level... he sold it!
I think in terms of hot hatches the Ibiza Cupra is overlooked. It wouldn't hold a candle to most in standard form especially round as track but on the road with just a remap it will keep up with most of it's peers.
Ford Puma 1.7 16v... it's the engine that the Zetec S Fiesta should have come with in the same chassis which is great fun... considered girly cos of it's shape which I actually quite like... cracking little car.
That's all I can think which get "overlooked",.
I think in terms of hot hatches the Ibiza Cupra is overlooked. It wouldn't hold a candle to most in standard form especially round as track but on the road with just a remap it will keep up with most of it's peers.
Ford Puma 1.7 16v... it's the engine that the Zetec S Fiesta should have come with in the same chassis which is great fun... considered girly cos of it's shape which I actually quite like... cracking little car.
That's all I can think which get "overlooked",.
I always quite like the 4th gen Cosmo - incredibly well equipped for its time but I guess rotary power meant it was never going to be a big seller, even in Japan.
Also, I'm surprised the KPGC10 Skyline GT-R doesn't have a bigger following. Very successful racers which now have cult status and command big money, but for many people GT-R history begins with the R32.
Also, I'm surprised the KPGC10 Skyline GT-R doesn't have a bigger following. Very successful racers which now have cult status and command big money, but for many people GT-R history begins with the R32.
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