1971 Matra-Simca M530 vs. 1982 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1982 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Matra-Simca M530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Matra-Simca M530 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Matra-Simca M530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Vauxhall Astra (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Matra-Simca M530 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1982 Vauxhall Astra.
Because 1971 Matra-Simca M530 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Matra-Simca M530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1971 Matra-Simca M530 (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Matra-Simca M530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Matra-Simca M530 | 1982 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Vauxhall |
| Model | M530 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1982 |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
