1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2004 Mazda 2
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 30 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 2 (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 888 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, 2004 Mazda 2, 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, 2004 Mazda 2 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 2 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 | 2004 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Bagheera | 2 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1788 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2500 mm |
