1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 26 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 220 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, 2005 Saturn ION, 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn ION 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 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Saturn |
| Model | Bagheera | ION |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1440 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 49 L |
