2005 Fiat Croma vs. 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2005 Fiat Croma is newer by 27 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 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Fiat Croma (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Fiat Croma weights approximately 605 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, 2005 Fiat Croma, 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 Fiat Croma (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Croma | 1978 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Fiat | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Croma | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
