1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (108 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 70 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 1973 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bagheera | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2480 mm |
