1982 Ford Escort vs. 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1982 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Escort weights approximately 50 kg more than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1975 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 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Ford Escort, 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, 1982 Ford Escort (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Escort | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 76.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2380 mm |
