1979 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 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 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 793 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho has manual transmission. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1441 cc | 3221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
