1981 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 2008 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster is newer by 27 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.
Because 2008 Smart Roadster 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 2008 Smart Roadster. 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, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Smart Roadster. 2008 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho has manual transmission. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | 2008 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Smart |
| Model | Rancho | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 35 L |
