1999 Acura NSX vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1999 Acura NSX is newer by 21 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura NSX weights approximately 330 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 1999 Acura NSX 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 1999 Acura NSX. 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, 1999 Acura NSX (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Acura NSX | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Acura | Matra-Simca |
| Model | NSX | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1464 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
