1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2003 Proton Arena
To start off, 2003 Proton Arena is newer by 27 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 1,468 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Proton Arena is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Proton Arena (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Proton Arena should accelerate faster than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Proton Arena weights approximately 85 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, 2003 Proton Arena, 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 Proton Arena (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Proton Arena 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 | 2003 Proton Arena | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Proton |
| Model | Bagheera | Arena |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2610 mm |
