1996 Ford Contour vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1996 Ford Contour is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 2,588 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Contour weights approximately 40 kg more than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1974 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 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Contour | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
