1973 Fiat 124 vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 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) has 106 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 272 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 124 | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | 124 | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 80 L |
