1980 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 23 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Rancho | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 210 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 | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
