1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1975 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 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Bagheera | 323 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.8 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2460 mm |
