2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 311 kg more than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Citroen | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Xsara | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1440 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
