1985 Ford Fairlane vs. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1985 Ford Fairlane is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Fairlane (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 498 kg more than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Ford Fairlane 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 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Fairlane | 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Fairlane | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4089 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2530 mm |
