2007 Citroen C3 vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 2007 Citroen C3 is newer by 29 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 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Citroen C3 (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Citroen C3 weights approximately 13 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, 2007 Citroen C3 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Citroen C3 | 1978 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | C3 | Rancho |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 177 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 | 1147 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
