2000 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (91 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 285 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 156 | Murena |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1746 cc | 2154 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
