1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 24 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 426 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 | 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Bagheera | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2520 mm |
