1997 Lada Niva vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1997 Lada Niva 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 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 86 more horse power than 1997 Lada Niva. (79 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1997 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lada Niva weights approximately 10 kg more than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1997 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lada Niva. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lada Niva | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Lada | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Niva | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1690 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 70 mm |
| Top Speed | 137 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 80 L |
