1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Passat (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 154 kg more than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1985 Volkswagen Passat (165 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bagheera | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2560 mm |
