1972 Fiat 132 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 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 1,755 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 132 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 132 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 132 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 42 kg more than 1972 Fiat 132.
Because 1972 Fiat 132 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 132. 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 132 (145 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 132 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 132 | 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 132 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
