1995 Ford Contour vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1995 Ford Contour is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Contour (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Contour weights approximately 110 kg more than 1979 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, 1995 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Contour | 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Contour | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
