1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bagheera | SL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1435 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 |
