1991 Ford Taurus vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1991 Ford Taurus is newer by 17 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 76 more horse power than 1991 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Taurus weights approximately 198 kg more than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
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, 1991 Ford Taurus, 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Taurus | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Taurus | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2512 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |
