1980 Honda Ballade vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1980 Honda Ballade is newer by 1 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 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Honda Ballade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 165 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. 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, 1980 Honda Ballade, 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, 1980 Honda Ballade (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1980 Honda Ballade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Honda Ballade | 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Honda | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Ballade | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1440 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2380 mm |
