2003 AC Cobra vs. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 AC Cobra.
Because 2003 AC Cobra 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 2003 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2003 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho. (119 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1980 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | AC | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Cobra | Rancho |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| 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 | 1062 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2530 mm |
