2008 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho

To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 29 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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 413 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.

Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho has manual transmission. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho
Make Audi Matra-Simca
Model A3 Rancho
Year Released 2008 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1966 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 205 km/hour 145 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1545 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 60 L 60 L