1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 233 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, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 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 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volvo |
| Model | Bagheera | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
