1987 Austin Maestro vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena
To start off, 1987 Austin Maestro is newer by 6 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 2,154 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Matra-Simca Murena is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena (91 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1987 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena should accelerate faster than 1987 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena weights approximately 80 kg more than 1987 Austin Maestro. 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, 1987 Austin Maestro, 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, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Matra-Simca Murena will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Austin Maestro | 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | |
| Make | Austin | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Maestro | Murena |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2154 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
