1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 20 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 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 821 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho has manual transmission. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | CL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 367 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
