1981 Ferrari 308 vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1981 Ferrari 308 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 2,926 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 308 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 146 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ferrari 308 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 1981 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1981 Ferrari 308 (260 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 308 | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ferrari | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 308 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 60 L |
