1993 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 14 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 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 595 kg more than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 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, 1993 Dodge Grand 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 Grand Caravan (235 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Dodge | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1440 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2380 mm |
