1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 715 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fairthorpe Atom 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 Fairthorpe Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Atom | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 322 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 15 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 417 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 60 L |
