1981 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1985 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 133 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar 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 | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Reliant |
| Model | Rancho | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 91 L |
