2003 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 29 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 542 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.
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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | BMW | Matra-Simca |
| Model | M3 | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2380 mm |
