2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 35 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (264 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (165 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera weights approximately 236 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
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, 2009 Ford Taurus, 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, 2009 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera has manual transmission. 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1974 Matra-Simca Bagheera | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Taurus | Bagheera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |
