2003 Citroen C2 vs. 1971 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 2003 Citroen C2 is newer by 32 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, 2003 Citroen C2 (72 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C2 should accelerate faster than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C2 weights approximately 65 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, 2003 Citroen C2, 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C2. (120 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Matra-Simca M530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C2 | 1971 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | C2 | M530 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Size | 1358 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2570 mm |
