2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 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) has 93 more horse power than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2000 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 122 kg more than 2000 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Xsara | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
