1997 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 23 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 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 270 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, 1997 Ford Escort, 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, 1997 Ford Escort (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Escort | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
