1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 39 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 178 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bagheera | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
