1998 Fiat Punto vs. 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1998 Fiat Punto is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Fiat Punto. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 1998 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Fiat Punto weights approximately 60 kg more than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1973 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 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Fiat Punto, 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, 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Fiat Punto. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Fiat Punto | 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Punto | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2380 mm |
