1983 Ford Laser vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1983 Ford Laser is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 85 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 190 kg more than 1983 Ford Laser.
Because 1978 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 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Laser, 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, 1983 Ford Laser (121 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Laser | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Laser | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2380 mm |
