1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 294 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| 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 | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
