1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1985 Mazda 626
To start off, 1985 Mazda 626 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 626 (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 626 weights approximately 56 kg more than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 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, 1985 Mazda 626, 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, 1985 Mazda 626 (157 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 626 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 | 1985 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mazda |
| Model | Bagheera | 626 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2520 mm |
