1959 NSU Prima III K Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
At the heart of the 1959 NSU Prima III K scooter motorcycle, NSU relies on a 146 cc (8.9 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 7.7 HP (5.6 kW) at 5,200 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 52.7 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the Prima III K measures 131 kg (289 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.06 HP/kg (17.01 kg per horsepower). The 12-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 2.5 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 480 km (298 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 84 km/h (52 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 1958 to 1964, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
52.7 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.06 HP/kg (17.01 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~480 km (298 mi)
Engine
Displacement146.0 ccm (8.91 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Power7.7 HP (5.6 kW)) @ 5200 RPM
Compression6.5:1
Bore x Stroke57.0 x 57.6 mm (2.2 x 2.3 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed84.0 km/h (52.2 mph)
Fuel Consumption2.50 litres/100 km (40.0 km/l or 94.09 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases58.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
