2003 Ford Ka vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,440 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (73 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 2003 Ford Ka (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Ka | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1440 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
