1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 1,796 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (182 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 356 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.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 66 L |
