1972 AMC Matador vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1986 Renault 21 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault 21 (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 360 kg more than 1986 Renault 21.
Because 1986 Renault 21 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 will offer significantly more control. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (275 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1986 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1986 Renault 21 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 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | AMC | Renault |
| Model | Matador | 21 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2670 mm |
