2003 Citroen Saxo vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2003 Citroen Saxo 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 2,588 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2003 Citroen Saxo. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 397 kg more than 2003 Citroen Saxo. 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, 2003 Citroen Saxo, 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen Saxo. (75 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Saxo | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Saxo | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 75 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
