1972 BMW 3 vs. 1978 Simca Horizon
To start off, 1978 Simca Horizon is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (83 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1978 Simca Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 3 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Simca Horizon, 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon. 1978 Simca Horizon has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Simca Horizon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 1978 Simca Horizon | |
| Make | BMW | Simca |
| Model | 3 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 47 L |
