1972 AMC Matador vs. 1989 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1989 Ford Tempo 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 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 159 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 584 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. 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 Tempo, 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 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1989 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2540 mm |
