2004 Buick Century vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 540 kg more than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century, 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, 2004 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 2004 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Century | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Buick | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Century | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
