1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2008 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2008 Mercury Sable is newer by 32 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercury Sable (260 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercury Sable weights approximately 1111 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, 2008 Mercury Sable, 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, 2008 Mercury Sable (333 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercury Sable 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 | 2008 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercury |
| Model | Bagheera | Sable |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 2011 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2870 mm |
