The NSU Sport Prinz was a significant model in NSU’s lineup, developed as a sportier variant of the original Prinz. Launched in 1961, it was designed to appeal to customers looking for a compact, stylish car that combined performance with everyday practicality. With its lightweight construction, innovative engineering, and sporty design, the Sport Prinz captured the spirit of the early 1960s automotive scene.

Historical Background

The NSU Sport Prinz made its debut at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show, showcasing NSU’s commitment to producing small yet spirited vehicles. Built on the foundations of the Prinz I, the Sport Prinz featured enhancements that improved its performance and driving dynamics. It quickly became popular among enthusiasts who appreciated its combination of affordability, practicality, and sporty characteristics.

The Sport Prinz played a crucial role in establishing NSU as a player in the small car market, particularly among those seeking a fun driving experience. It helped pave the way for subsequent models in the NSU lineup that would continue to build on the legacy of the Prinz series.

Technical Specifications

The NSU Sport Prinz was equipped with an efficient powertrain and designed to provide a lively driving experience. Below are the key specifications:

• Displacement: 996 cc
• Compression Ratio: Approximately 9.0:1
• HP Output: 50 hp at 6,000 rpm
• Torque Output: Approximately 7.2 kg/m at 4,000 rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed manual
• Length: 3,300 mm
• Width: 1,500 mm
• Height: 1,350 mm
• Weight: Approximately 680 kg
• Wheelbase: 2,200 mm
• 0-100 km/h: Approximately 14 seconds
• Top Speed: Around 135 km/h

Design and Mechanical Features

The NSU Sport Prinz was characterized by its sporty aesthetics and enhanced mechanical features, making it a standout in the compact car segment.

1. Sporty Body Design:
   • The Sport Prinz featured a distinctive two-door coupe design, with sleek lines and a lower profile compared to the standard Prinz models. This design gave it a sporty appearance and improved aerodynamics.
   • The front end was characterized by a more aggressive grille and round headlights, adding to its sporty flair.
2. Air-Cooled Inline-Four Engine:
   • The Sport Prinz was powered by a 996 cc air-cooled inline-four engine, derived from the standard Prinz but tuned for higher performance. This engine provided a good balance of power and efficiency, appealing to sport-oriented drivers.
   • The engine was known for its smooth operation and reliability, characteristics that were typical of NSU’s engineering.
3. Independent Suspension:
   • The Sport Prinz featured independent front suspension with coil springs, enhancing handling and ride quality. The rear suspension utilized a swing axle, which was common in compact cars of the era.
   • This suspension setup allowed for nimble handling and contributed to the car’s fun-to-drive nature.
4. Lightweight Construction:
   • With a curb weight of around 680 kg, the Sport Prinz was designed to be lightweight, which complemented its engine performance and handling capabilities. This made the car responsive and agile, ideal for enthusiastic driving.
5. Braking System:
   • The braking system included drum brakes on all four wheels, a typical feature for cars of this size during the period. While not as advanced as modern systems, the brakes were adequate for the Sport Prinz’s performance.

Driving Experience and Performance

The NSU Sport Prinz offered a spirited driving experience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. The combination of its lightweight body and peppy engine allowed for quick acceleration and agile handling, perfect for navigating both city streets and winding roads.

The Sport Prinz’s air-cooled engine provided a unique driving experience, with a responsive throttle and smooth power delivery. Drivers appreciated the engaging handling characteristics, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and lightweight construction. Although it was not the fastest car on the market, its balance of performance and practicality made it a popular choice.

Legacy and Impact

The NSU Sport Prinz played an important role in establishing NSU’s reputation for producing fun and economical small cars. Its combination of sporty design and performance appealed to a generation of drivers looking for affordable yet enjoyable vehicles. The Sport Prinz paved the way for later models in the NSU lineup, including the Prinz 1000 and Prinz TT, which would further enhance the brand’s performance credentials.

Today, the NSU Sport Prinz is regarded as a classic and is cherished by collectors and enthusiasts. Its distinctive design and spirited performance have earned it a place in automotive history as a pioneering small sports car. The Sport Prinz exemplifies NSU’s innovative spirit during the 1960s, reflecting the era’s enthusiasm for compact and dynamic vehicles.