2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 30 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 56 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 742 kg more than 2004 Ariel Atom. 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, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ariel | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Atom | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2610 mm |
