1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 910 kg more than 1975 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bagheera | SL |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.8 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2520 mm |
