1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 1979 Volvo 260 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 216 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volvo 260 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 1979 Volvo 260. 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 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 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volvo |
| Model | Rancho | 260 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
