1992 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1992 Ford Escort is newer by 16 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Ford Escort (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Ford Escort weights approximately 160 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, 1992 Ford Escort, 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, 1992 Ford Escort (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Escort | 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Escort | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
