2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 33 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 575 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Matra-Simca M530. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Matra-Simca M530.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 156 | M530 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
