1973 Matra-Simca M530 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 31 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 374 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca M530. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Matra-Simca M530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Matra-Simca M530 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | M530 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
