1973 Matra-Simca M530 vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Matra-Simca M530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Matra-Simca M530 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (112 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 195 kg more than 1973 Matra-Simca M530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Matra-Simca M530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort, 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, 1996 Ford Escort (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca M530. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Matra-Simca M530. 1996 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 1973 Matra-Simca M530 has manual transmission. 1973 Matra-Simca M530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Matra-Simca M530 | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Ford |
| Model | M530 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
