1979 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 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 2,032 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 138 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | A |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1441 cc | 2032 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
