1962 BMW 1500 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1500 would be higher. At 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 BMW 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 BMW 1500 (80 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 BMW 1500 should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 89 kg more than 1962 BMW 1500.
Because 1962 BMW 1500 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 1962 BMW 1500. 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, 1962 BMW 1500 (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 BMW 1500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1500 | 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | BMW | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 1500 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2530 mm |
