2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 180 kg more than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1976 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 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2005 Citroen Xsara (110 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1976 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Xsara | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2380 mm |
