1972 AMC Matador vs. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 30 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 30 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 517 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Matador | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 56 L |
