1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 1996 Renault Megane is newer by 17 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (106 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 185 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, 1996 Renault Megane, 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, 1996 Renault Megane (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane 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 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Renault |
| Model | Bagheera | Megane |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80.5 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 | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
