1978 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 34 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 184 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Nissan |
| Model | Rancho | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4567 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
