2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 22 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 217 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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, 2000 Citroen Xsara (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2000 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 2000 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Xsara | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1197 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2380 mm |
