1996 Honda S-MX vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX 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 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 128 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 Honda S-MX, 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Honda | Matra-Simca |
| Model | S-MX | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
