1972 AMC Matador vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1972 AMC Matador is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (113 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 637 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 AMC Matador 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 1972 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12, 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, 1972 AMC Matador (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | AMC | Renault |
| Model | Matador | 12 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1567 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 89 L |
