2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 28 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (165 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 712 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Caterham | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Superlight R | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2610 mm |
