1979 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 77 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (245 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Rancho | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1441 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2270 mm |
