1993 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1993 Dodge Caravan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Dodge Caravan (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 425 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Dodge Caravan, 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, 1993 Dodge Caravan (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1993 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Dodge | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Caravan | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2380 mm |
