1986 Austin Maestro vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1986 Austin Maestro is newer by 12 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 99 more horse power than 1986 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1986 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 287 kg more than 1986 Austin Maestro. 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, 1986 Austin Maestro, 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 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Austin Maestro | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Austin | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Maestro | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 80 L |
