1972 AMC Matador vs. 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport is newer by 25 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 72 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (183 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport weights approximately 122 kg more than 1972 AMC Matador.
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, 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport, 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 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Matador | Trans Sport |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 3350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 3050 mm |
