1972 Buick GS vs. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,723 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Buick GS weights approximately 498 kg more than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Buick GS 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 1972 Buick GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1972 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Buick GS | 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Buick | Matra-Simca |
| Model | GS | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5723 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 394 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2530 mm |
