1988 Honda Civic vs. 1972 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 1988 Honda Civic is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Matra-Simca M530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Matra-Simca M530 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Matra-Simca M530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Honda Civic (89 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1972 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1972 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Matra-Simca M530 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1988 Honda Civic.
Because 1972 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 1972 Matra-Simca M530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Honda Civic, 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, 1972 Matra-Simca M530 (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Matra-Simca M530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Honda Civic | 1972 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Honda | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Civic | M530 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
