2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 243 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Xsara | Rancho |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 175 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 | 1375 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
