1972 AMC Matador vs. 1989 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1989 Ford Taurus is newer by 17 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 61 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 305 kg more than 1989 Ford Taurus. 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, 1989 Ford Taurus, 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 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
1972 AMC Matador | 1989 Ford Taurus | |
Make | AMC | Ford |
Model | Matador | Taurus |
Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2700 mm |