1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 141 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 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 227 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 | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
