1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2001 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2001 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 22 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Vauxhall Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 410 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, 2001 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 2001 Vauxhall Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Vauxhall Astra 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 | 2001 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Vauxhall |
| Model | Bagheera | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2620 mm |
