2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta is newer by 31 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 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 245 kg more than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Because 1974 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 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Fiesta, 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 Ford Fiesta (162 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Fiesta | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2380 mm |
