1981 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 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 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 23 kg more than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rancho | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
