Matra Bagheera

vs

Porsche 911

France vs Germany — 1973 vs 1973

Matra Bagheera (1973)
Porsche 911 (1973)
Specifications
Bagheera S911 2.7 RS Carrera
Horsepower90 hp210 hp
Torque91 lb-ft188 lb-ft
Engine Size1,442 cc2,687 cc
0-60 mph10.5 sec5.6 sec
Top Speed115 mph152 mph
¼ Mile17.5 sec14.1 sec
Weight2,083 lbs1,984 lbs
Wheelbase2,340 mm2,271 mm
Length4,063 mm4,147 mm
Units Produced47,8021,580
Original MSRP$11,000
Value (Excellent)$25,000$1,200,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity7/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1973 Matra Bagheera S offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between France and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1973 Matra Bagheera S versus 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera 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 with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera is considerably scarcer than the Matra Bagheera's 47,802 examples. On the collector market, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera commands a significant premium over the 1973 Matra Bagheera S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.