1972 AMC Matador vs. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 9 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 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 280 kg more than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (203 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
1972 AMC Matador | 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | AMC | Oldsmobile |
Model | Matador | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5897 cc | 2966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 427 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2680 mm |