1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 25 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 1,685 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 493 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, 1998 Opel Meriva, 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (185 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva 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 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Opel |
| Model | Bagheera | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2740 mm |
