1989 Dodge Spirit vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena
To start off, 1989 Dodge Spirit is newer by 8 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 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Spirit (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (91 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 321 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, 1989 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1989 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Spirit | 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | |
| Make | Dodge | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Spirit | Murena |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 2154 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
