1987 Lada Samara vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 55 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, 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 Lada Samara (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1987 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Lada | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Samara | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1458 cc | 1440 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 60 L |
