1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1970 Saab Sonett III
To start off, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab Sonett III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab Sonett III would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Saab Sonett III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab Sonett III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 180 kg more than 1970 Saab Sonett III. 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, 1970 Saab Sonett III, 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, 1970 Saab Sonett III (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1970 Saab Sonett III will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1970 Saab Sonett III | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Saab |
| Model | Bagheera | Sonett III |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 58.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
