1966 Fiat 124 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena is newer by 15 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 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 32 more horse power than 1966 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena should accelerate faster than 1966 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena weights approximately 65 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, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Matra-Simca Murena will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Fiat 124 | 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 124 | Murena |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2154 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 91 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
