1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 439 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 858 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 785 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (216 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bagheera | SL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 2060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
