1981 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 313 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
