1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 35 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 107 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Bagheera | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
