1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1982 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1982 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Vauxhall Astra (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 15 kg more than 1982 Vauxhall Astra.
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, 1982 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1982 Vauxhall Astra (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1982 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 1982 Vauxhall Astra has automatic transmission and 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Vauxhall Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1982 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Vauxhall |
| Model | Bagheera | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 85.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2520 mm |
