1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 573 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bagheera | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 182 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 | 1473 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2720 mm |
