1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 23 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 105 kg more than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Opel 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, 1996 Opel Astra (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Opel |
| Model | Bagheera | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1389 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 | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2620 mm |
