1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 725 kg more than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Dodge | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Caravan | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2380 mm |
