1998 Ford Contour vs. 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 511 kg more than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Contour, 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 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
Model | Contour | Bagheera |
Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1294 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 76.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 70 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2380 mm |