1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 28 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 480 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.
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, 2003 Opel Meriva, 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, 2003 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva 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 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Opel |
| Model | Bagheera | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2740 mm |
