1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1966 Porsche 912
To start off, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Porsche 912. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Porsche 912 would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Porsche 912 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Porsche 912 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Porsche 912 should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 164 kg more than 1966 Porsche 912.
Because 1966 Porsche 912 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 1966 Porsche 912. 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, 1966 Porsche 912 (133 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm). This means 1966 Porsche 912 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 | 1966 Porsche 912 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Porsche |
| Model | Rancho | 912 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
