1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 408 kg more than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1974 BMW 2.8 (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | BMW | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 2.8 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2530 mm |
