1979 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Buick Century (140 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Century weights approximately 298 kg more than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Buick Century 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 1978 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1978 Buick Century (250 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm). This means 1978 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | 1978 Buick Century | |
Make | Matra-Simca | Buick |
Model | Rancho | Century |
Year Released | 1979 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1441 cc | 5000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 140 HP |
Torque | 116 Nm | 250 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 94.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 88.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2760 mm |