1986 Citroen Mehari vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1986 Citroen Mehari is newer by 8 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 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 425 kg more than 1986 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1986 Citroen Mehari, 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, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen Mehari | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Mehari | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 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 | 555 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2380 mm |
