1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 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 166 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. 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, 1972 Fiat 124 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 124 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
