France vs Germany — 1973 vs 1972
| Bagheera S | 911 Carrera RS 2.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 90 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 91 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,442 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,083 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,340 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 4,063 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,802 | 1,580 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1973 Matra Bagheera S counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1973 Matra Bagheera S against the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus Germany. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 90 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Matra Bagheera uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,442 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is considerably scarcer than the Matra Bagheera's 47,802 examples. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1973 Matra Bagheera S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.