1972 AMC Matador vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 13 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 60 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 575 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. 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, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am, 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
1972 AMC Matador | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | AMC | Pontiac |
Model | Matador | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1972 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2630 mm |