1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, both 1978 Fiat 131 and 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho were released in the same year (1978). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. 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) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 169 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 1978 Fiat 131. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
Model | 131 | Rancho |
Year Released | 1978 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1442 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 79 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1740 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |