2001 Kia Rio vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 23 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 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2001 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 55 kg more than 2001 Kia Rio. 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, 2001 Kia Rio, 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, 2001 Kia Rio (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Kia Rio | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Kia | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Rio | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| 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 | 4220 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2380 mm |
