1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1991 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1991 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 13 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 2,616 cc, 1991 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 166 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 1991 Mazda RX-7 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 1991 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda RX-7 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 | 1991 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Rancho | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| 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 | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 75 L |
