1988 Buick Skylark vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1988 Buick Skylark is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 3,331 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Skylark (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Skylark weights approximately 71 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Buick Skylark (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. 1988 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho has manual transmission. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Skylark | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Buick | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Skylark | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3331 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
