1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1984 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Reliant Scimitar (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 134 kg more than 1984 Reliant Scimitar.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1984 Reliant Scimitar (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1984 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Reliant |
| Model | Bagheera | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2140 mm |
