1972 AMC Matador vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 14 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 334 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema.
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, 1986 Lancia Thema, 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (285 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | AMC | Lancia |
| Model | Matador | Thema |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1484 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2670 mm |
