2007 Dodge Caravan vs. 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2007 Dodge Caravan is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Caravan (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 460 kg more than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Caravan, 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, 2007 Dodge Caravan (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 2007 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Caravan | 1973 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Dodge | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Caravan | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.1 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2380 mm |
