1972 Ford Mustang vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,753 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Mustang (267 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Mustang weights approximately 520 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 Ford Mustang (417 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Mustang | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Mustang | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5753 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 417 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 60 L |
