2002 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2002 Ford Escort 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Escort (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Escort weights approximately 222 kg more than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Escort, 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 Ford Escort (178 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm). This means 2002 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Escort | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Escort | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2380 mm |
