1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2004 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2004 Mercury Sable 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercury Sable (200 HP) has 117 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Sable weights approximately 604 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 Mercury Sable, 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 Mercury Sable (271 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm). This means 2004 Mercury Sable 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 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercury |
| Model | Bagheera | Sable |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2760 mm |
