1969 Lotus Europa vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 1,470 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Europa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Europa. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 520 kg more than 1969 Lotus Europa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Europa | 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Lotus | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Europa | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
