1980 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1971 Vauxhall Firenza
To start off, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Vauxhall Firenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Vauxhall Firenza would be higher. At 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1971 Vauxhall Firenza. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1971 Vauxhall Firenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 242 kg more than 1971 Vauxhall Firenza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Vauxhall Firenza 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 1971 Vauxhall Firenza. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Vauxhall Firenza. (91 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Vauxhall Firenza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho | 1971 Vauxhall Firenza | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Vauxhall |
| Model | Rancho | Firenza |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |
