1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 28 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 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 79 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 184 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rancho | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1420 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 174 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 | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
