2001 Lada Samara II vs. 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2001 Lada Samara II is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Lada Samara II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2001 Lada Samara II. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2001 Lada Samara II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lada Samara II weights approximately 70 kg more than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1976 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 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Lada Samara II, 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 Lada Samara II (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 Lada Samara II will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lada Samara II | 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Lada | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Samara II | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1497 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2380 mm |
