1981 Matra-Simca Murena vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Matra-Simca Murena would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (91 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Matra-Simca Murena 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 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volvo |
| Model | Murena | S80 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2154 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2800 mm |
