1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 31 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 525 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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Opel |
| Model | Bagheera | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| 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 | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2640 mm |
