1979 Simca 1308 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 32 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1979 Simca 1308. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1979 Simca 1308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 345 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 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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, 2011 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Simca 1308. (107 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Simca 1308.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Simca 1308 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Simca | BMW |
| Model | 1308 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1292 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 51 L |
