1998 Citroen Saxo vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1998 Citroen Saxo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Saxo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Saxo (117 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 55 kg more than 1998 Citroen Saxo.
Because 1978 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 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo, 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, 1998 Citroen Saxo (145 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Saxo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Saxo | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Saxo | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2380 mm |
