2001 Citroen C3 vs. 1971 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 2001 Citroen C3 is newer by 30 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Matra-Simca M530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C3 (72 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen C3 weights approximately 276 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, 2001 Citroen C3, 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, 1971 Matra-Simca M530 (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen C3. (110 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Matra-Simca M530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen C3 | 1971 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | C3 | M530 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1211 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
