1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 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 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1070 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bagheera | A |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
