1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1955 Peugeot 203
To start off, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 2,588 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (165 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1955 Peugeot 203. (44 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1955 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 218 kg more than 1955 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Peugeot 203. (77 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1955 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Peugeot |
| Model | Bagheera | 203 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 44 HP |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 984 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
