1973 Autobianchi Bianchina vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina would be higher. At 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 574 kg more than 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina 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 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina. 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, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina. (30 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Autobianchi Bianchina | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Autobianchi | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Bianchina | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 118 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 |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 560 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 60 L |
