1972 AMC Matador vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 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 140 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 575 kg more than 1981 Renault 18. 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 Renault 18, 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 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1981 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1981 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | AMC | Renault |
| Model | Matador | 18 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
