1997 De Tomaso Guara vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1997 De Tomaso Guara is newer by 19 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 3,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 De Tomaso Guara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 De Tomaso Guara (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 De Tomaso Guara should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 De Tomaso Guara weights approximately 41 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.
Because 1997 De Tomaso Guara 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 1997 De Tomaso Guara. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1997 De Tomaso Guara (402 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 De Tomaso Guara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 De Tomaso Guara | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Guara | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3981 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 402 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
