1972 AMC Matador vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 @ 4600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 190 kg more than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 (469 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | AMC | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Matador | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2740 mm |
