2001 BMW 740 vs. 1981 Talbot Samba

To start off, 2001 BMW 740 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba would be higher. At 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 740 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 740 weights approximately 1042 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 BMW 740 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 2001 BMW 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Talbot Samba, 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, 2001 BMW 740 (410 Nm) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (85 Nm). This means 2001 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba. 2001 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1981 Talbot Samba has manual transmission. 1981 Talbot Samba will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 740 1981 Talbot Samba
Make BMW Talbot
Model 740 Samba
Year Released 2001 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4000 cc 1123 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 317 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 410 Nm 85 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1782 kg 740 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 3520 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1540 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2350 mm