1981 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 6,330 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 (248 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 1638 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 (500 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz 600 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | 600 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 6330 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 103 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 2770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 6250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
