1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 159 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, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm). This means 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bagheera | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2520 mm |
