2003 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Matra-Simca Murena
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Matra-Simca Murena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Matra-Simca Murena would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Murena. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Matra-Simca Murena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 334 kg more than 1980 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1980 Matra-Simca Murena | |
| Make | BMW | Matra-Simca |
| Model | M3 | Murena |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2156 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 91.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1051 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
