1979 Simca 1308 vs. 2008 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2008 Toyota MR2 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Simca 1308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Simca 1308 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1979 Simca 1308. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1979 Simca 1308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1979 Simca 1308. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Toyota MR2 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 2008 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Simca 1308, 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 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Simca 1308. (107 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Simca 1308.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Simca 1308 | 2008 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Simca | Toyota |
| Model | 1308 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1292 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 48 L |
