1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 58 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 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 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Rancho | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
