1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera 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 31 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 158 kg more than 1974 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bagheera | 230 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| 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 | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
