1970 Honda Z vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Honda Z 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 141 more horse power than 1970 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1970 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 686 kg more than 1970 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1970 Honda Z, 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 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Honda Z | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Honda | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Z | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2610 mm |
