1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2004 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Maxima 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 421 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Maxima (347 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. 2004 Nissan Maxima 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. 2004 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | 2004 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Nissan |
| Model | Rancho | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2830 mm |
