1966 Fiat 124 vs. 1973 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 1973 Matra-Simca M530 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Matra-Simca M530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Matra-Simca M530 (71 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1966 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Matra-Simca M530 should accelerate faster than 1966 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Matra-Simca M530 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1966 Fiat 124. 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, 1973 Matra-Simca M530 (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1973 Matra-Simca M530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Fiat 124 | 1973 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 124 | M530 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
