1972 AMC Matador vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 1981 Saab 900 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 554 kg more than 1981 Saab 900. 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 Saab 900, 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | AMC | Saab |
| Model | Matador | 900 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2530 mm |
