1980 Maserati Merak vs. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, both 1980 Maserati Merak and 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho were released in the same year (1980). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Maserati Merak is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Maserati Merak (157 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Maserati Merak should accelerate faster than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Maserati Merak weights approximately 224 kg more than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Maserati Merak 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 1980 Maserati Merak. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Maserati Merak | 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Maserati | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Merak | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2530 mm |
