2002 Ford Taurus vs. 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2002 Ford Taurus is newer by 26 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 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Taurus weights approximately 577 kg more than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Ford Taurus, 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 Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Taurus | 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Taurus | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2933 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2380 mm |
