1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 21 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
