1984 Fiat 126 vs. 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1984 Fiat 126 is newer by 2 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 1,441 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho (78 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1984 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 547 kg more than 1984 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Fiat 126 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 1984 Fiat 126. 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, 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat 126 | 1982 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 126 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2530 mm |
