1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1959 Rover P4
To start off, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,286 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1959 Rover P4. (67 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1959 Rover P4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Rover P4 weights approximately 338 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Because 1959 Rover P4 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 1959 Rover P4. 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, 1959 Rover P4 (169 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1959 Rover P4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | 1959 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Rover |
| Model | Rancho | P4 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 2286 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1472 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
