2006 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 248 kg more than 1979 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Audi | Matra-Simca |
| Model | A3 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 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 | 1380 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
