1963 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Austin Mini Cooper would be higher. At 1,441 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. (67 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 442 kg more than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. (84 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Austin Mini Cooper | 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Austin | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Mini Cooper | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 60 L |
