1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1977 Ford Fiesta is newer by 2 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 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 174 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1977 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Fiesta | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2380 mm |
