1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica would be higher. At 3,967 cc (12 cylinders), 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica weights approximately 456 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica 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 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica (305 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ferrari 400 Superamerica | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ferrari | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 400 Superamerica | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3967 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 119 L | 60 L |
