1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 20 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 207 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Chevrolet |
| Model | Bagheera | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 56 L |
