1980 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2005 Morgan Plus 8
To start off, 2005 Morgan Plus 8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 3,945 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Morgan Plus 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Morgan Plus 8 (187 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Morgan Plus 8 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 22 kg more than 2005 Morgan Plus 8.
Because 2005 Morgan Plus 8 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 2005 Morgan Plus 8. 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, 2005 Morgan Plus 8 (305 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Morgan Plus 8 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 | 2005 Morgan Plus 8 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Morgan |
| Model | Rancho | Plus 8 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 3945 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
