1972 AMC Matador vs. 1987 Lada Samara
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 15 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) has 181 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 809 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara. 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, 1987 Lada Samara, 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 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lada Samara. (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lada Samara. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1987 Lada Samara has manual transmission. 1987 Lada Samara 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 | 1987 Lada Samara | |
| Make | AMC | Lada |
| Model | Matador | Samara |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 71 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 43 L |
