2002 Citroen C3 vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,440 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1979 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 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Citroen C3, 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, 2002 Citroen C3 (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | C3 | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1440 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 78 mm |
| 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 | 1080 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 60 L |
