1982 Matra-Simca Rancho vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. (78 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 356 kg more than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho has manual transmission. 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rancho | 230 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1441 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1132 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
