1998 Citroen Saxo vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1998 Citroen Saxo is newer by 20 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Saxo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (58 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 244 kg more than 1998 Citroen Saxo. 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, 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (93 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Saxo | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Saxo | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 158 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
