1988 Lancia Thema vs. 1971 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Matra-Simca M530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Matra-Simca M530 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 280 kg more than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Matra-Simca M530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema, 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (166 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Matra-Simca M530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lancia Thema | 1971 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Lancia | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Thema | M530 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1971 |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
