1969 Citroen DS vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,588 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1969 Citroen DS. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1969 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Citroen DS weights approximately 8 kg more than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera 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 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Citroen DS, 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Citroen DS | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | DS | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
