1958 Fiat 1200 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 2,154 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Matra-Simca Murena is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena (91 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1958 Fiat 1200. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena should accelerate faster than 1958 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena weights approximately 70 kg more than 1958 Fiat 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Fiat 1200. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Matra-Simca Murena will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Fiat 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Fiat 1200 | 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 1200 | Murena |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1221 cc | 2154 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 91 HP |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2440 mm |
