1995 Ford Contour vs. 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1995 Ford Contour is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Contour (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Contour weights approximately 342 kg more than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Ford Contour, 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, 1995 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Contour | 1975 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Contour | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2380 mm |
