1956 NSU Prima V Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Positioned in NSU's scooter motorcycle lineup, the 1956 NSU Prima V relies on a 175 cc (10.7 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 9.5 HP (6.9 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 54.3 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 V measures 138 kg (304 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.07 HP/kg (14.53 kg per horsepower). The 12-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 90 km/h (56 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 9 indexed model years from 1956 to 1964, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
54.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.07 HP/kg (14.53 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement175.0 ccm (10.68 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Power9.5 HP (6.9 kW)) @ 5200 RPM
Compression6.4:1
Bore x Stroke62.0 x 57.6 mm (2.4 x 2.3 inches)
Valves/Cylinder0
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Bing
Fuel ControlPiston port
IgnitionBattery
LubricationSeparate lubrication with automatic oil injection pump
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
ClutchAutomatic centrifugal dry clutch
DrivelineV-belt automatic transmission (CVT)
Performance
Top Speed90.0 km/h (55.9 mph)
Chassis
Frame TypeTubular
Front SuspensionTelescopic
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre3.50-10
Rear Tyre3.50-10
Front BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
WheelsSpoked
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight138.0 kg (304.2 pounds)
Power/Weight0.0688 HP/kg
SeatTwo single seats
Overall Height965 mm (38.0 inches)
Overall Length1920 mm (75.6 inches)
Overall Width650 mm (25.6 inches)
Fuel Capacity12.00 litres (3.17 US gallons)
Oil Capacity1.20 litres (1.27 US quarts) 2T oil tank
Service & Fluids
Engine Oil2-stroke synthetic motorcycle oil (API TC / JASO FC/FD)
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.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
