2003 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda 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 96 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 341 kg more than 2003 Fiat Panda. 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 Fiat Panda, 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 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (144 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Panda | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1251 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 861 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
