1996 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 15 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 2 kg more than 1981 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, 1996 Audi A3 (136 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1981 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Audi | Matra-Simca |
| Model | A3 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 79 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
