1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 35 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 948 kg more than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bagheera | SL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2570 mm |
