1971 Matra-Simca M530 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 37 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, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 330 kg more than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Opel 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1971 Matra-Simca M530 has manual transmission. 1971 Matra-Simca M530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Matra-Simca M530 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Opel |
| Model | M530 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
