1972 AMC Matador vs. 2001 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2001 Ford Explorer is newer by 29 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 102 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 436 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer. 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, 2001 Ford Explorer, 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) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2001 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 132 L |
