1972 AMC Matador vs. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino
To start off, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino is newer by 8 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) has 15 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 12 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. 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, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, 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) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Matador | El Camino |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1567 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2980 mm |
