1980 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 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 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 293 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 2007 Mazda RX-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 2007 Mazda RX-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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-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 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Rancho | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
