1958 Alpine A 106 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1958 Alpine A 106. (43 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1958 Alpine A 106. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 582 kg more than 1958 Alpine A 106. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Alpine A 106 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 1958 Alpine A 106. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Alpine A 106. (45 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Alpine A 106.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Alpine A 106 | 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Alpine | Matra-Simca |
| Model | A 106 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 54.5 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 60 L |
