2002 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 21 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 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 353 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (91 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 105 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (136 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | |
| Make | BMW | Matra-Simca |
| Model | M3 | Murena |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 2154 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 995 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2440 mm |
