1980 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Rekord (100 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 12 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. 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, 1978 Opel Rekord (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Opel |
| Model | Rancho | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
