1979 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 1981 Buick Century is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Buick Century (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 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 1981 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 1981 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, 1981 Buick Century (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 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 | 1981 Buick Century | |
Make | Matra-Simca | Buick |
Model | Rancho | Century |
Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1441 cc | 3213 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 116 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
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 |