1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 336 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 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rancho | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
