1981 Matra-Simca Murena vs. 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Matra-Simca Murena would be higher. At 2,154 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Matra-Simca Murena is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena (91 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. (78 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Matra-Simca Murena should accelerate faster than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 137 kg more than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena.
Because 1981 Matra-Simca Murena 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 Matra-Simca Murena. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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 Matra-Simca Murena (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Matra-Simca Murena will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Murena | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2154 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2530 mm |
