1981 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1977 Opel Monza
To start off, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Opel Monza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Opel Monza would be higher. At 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Opel Monza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Opel Monza (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Opel Monza should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Opel Monza weights approximately 203 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 1977 Opel Monza 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 1977 Opel Monza. 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, 1977 Opel Monza (162 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Opel Monza 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 | 1977 Opel Monza | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Opel |
| Model | Rancho | Monza |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2550 mm |
