1981 Austin Maxi vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1981 Austin Maxi is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 2,588 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 217 kg more than 1981 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi, 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Austin | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Maxi | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
