1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 77 kg more than 1955 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin A 55 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 1955 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho, 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, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Austin | Matra-Simca |
| Model | A 55 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2530 mm |
