1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1996 Volkswagen Parati
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Parati 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 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Parati is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Parati (91 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Parati should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Parati weights approximately 75 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.
Because 1974 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 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Parati, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Parati (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Parati 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 Volkswagen Parati | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bagheera | Parati |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2480 mm |
