1977 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Escort 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 34 more horse power than 1977 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 222 kg more than 1977 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Ford Escort 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 1977 Ford Escort. 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Escort | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Escort | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 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 | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
