1997 Ford Contour vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 108 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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Contour | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
