1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 22 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 123 kg more than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bagheera | SLK |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
