1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1966 Wartburg 353
To start off, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 353. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 353 would be higher. At 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 353. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 353.
Because 1973 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 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Wartburg 353, 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, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 353. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 353.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1966 Wartburg 353 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Wartburg |
| Model | Bagheera | 353 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2460 mm |
