1981 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1954 Rover P4
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,230 cc (6 cylinders), 1954 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Rover P4 (80 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Rover P4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Rover P4 weights approximately 352 kg more than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Rover P4 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 1954 Rover P4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1954 Rover P4 (153 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1954 Rover P4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | 1954 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Rover |
| Model | Rancho | P4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 2230 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 7.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
