1980 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

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 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 36 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 286 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Matra-Simca Rancho 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Matra-Simca Volkswagen
Model Rancho Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1980 1971
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1442 cc 1285 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 79 HP 43 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4100 RPM
Torque 119 Nm 86 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1132 kg 846 kg
Vehicle Length 4320 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1740 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2530 mm 2430 mm