1972 AMC Matador vs. 1996 Ford Contour
To start off, 1996 Ford Contour is newer by 24 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 126 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 492 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. 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, 1996 Ford Contour, 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 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1972 AMC Matador | 1996 Ford Contour | |
Make | AMC | Ford |
Model | Matador | Contour |
Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 468 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 84.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 88 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2710 mm |