1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 568 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bagheera | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
