1994 Ford Probe vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1994 Ford Probe is newer by 16 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Ford Probe (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Probe weights approximately 256 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, 1994 Ford Probe, 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 Ford Probe (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Probe | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Probe | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1230 mm |
