1976 Datsun Violet vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun Violet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun Violet would be higher. At 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Datsun Violet. (62 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 80 kg more than 1976 Datsun Violet. 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, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun Violet. (99 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun Violet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Datsun Violet | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Datsun | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Violet | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
