2006 BMW 550 vs. 1978 Simca Horizon
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 28 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 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (69 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon.
Because 2006 BMW 550 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 2006 BMW 550. 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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 550 | 1978 Simca Horizon | |
| Make | BMW | Simca |
| Model | 550 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4801 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 47 L |
