1998 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 35 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, 1998 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Focus | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1442 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 | 178 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1169 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
