1979 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chevrolet Camaro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chevrolet Camaro would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Chevrolet Camaro (165 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 453 kg more than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Chevrolet Camaro 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 1979 Chevrolet Camaro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1979 Chevrolet Camaro (358 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chevrolet Camaro | 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Camaro | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5735 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2530 mm |
