1979 Lancia Beta vs. 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1979 Lancia Beta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lancia Beta weights approximately 100 kg more than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1973 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 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Beta, 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, both vehicles can yield 108 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Lancia | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Beta | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2380 mm |
