2003 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Simca Horizon
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Simca Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Simca Horizon would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (58 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 497 kg more than 1978 Simca Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Simca Horizon, 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (89 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1978 Simca Horizon | |
| Make | BMW | Simca |
| Model | M3 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1118 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 47 L |
