1987 Ford Probe vs. 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1987 Ford Probe is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Probe (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Probe weights approximately 350 kg more than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Ford Probe, 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, 1987 Ford Probe (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Probe | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2380 mm |
