1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1999 Mazda 323
To start off, 1999 Mazda 323 is newer by 25 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 @ 6200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 55 kg more than 1999 Mazda 323. 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, 1999 Mazda 323, 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1999 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Bagheera | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
