1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1999 Mazda 626
To start off, 1999 Mazda 626 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 64 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 626 weights approximately 138 kg more than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
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 626, 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, 1999 Mazda 626 (224 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda 626 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 | 1999 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Bagheera | 626 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
