1972 AMC Matador vs. 1979 Ford Ranchero
To start off, 1979 Ford Ranchero is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Matador 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 42 more horse power than 1979 Ford Ranchero. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Ranchero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 780 kg more than 1979 Ford Ranchero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Ranchero. (170 Nm). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Ranchero.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1979 Ford Ranchero | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Ranchero |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1992 cc |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 925 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2300 mm |
