1992 Lancia Thema vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1992 Lancia Thema is newer by 18 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 49 more horse power than 1992 Lancia Thema. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1992 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lancia Thema weights approximately 178 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, 1992 Lancia Thema, 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 Lancia Thema (256 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lancia Thema | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Lancia | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Thema | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
