1986 Fiat 126 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1986 Fiat 126 is newer by 5 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. In terms of performance, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1986 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 547 kg more than 1986 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Fiat 126. 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat 126 | 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 126 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 116 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 |
