1994 Chrysler Neon vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1994 Chrysler Neon is newer by 15 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Chrysler Neon (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 129 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, 1994 Chrysler Neon, 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, 1994 Chrysler Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1994 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Chrysler Neon | 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Chrysler | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Neon | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1440 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2380 mm |
