1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,440 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (45 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 230 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 1979 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 1979 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, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1979 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 | 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Fiesta | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1440 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
