1972 AMC Matador vs. 2002 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2002 Dodge Viper 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 8,275 cc (10 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Viper (493 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 65 kg more than 2002 Dodge Viper.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Dodge Viper (712 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2002 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 2002 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2002 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Matador | Viper |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 8275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 712 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 102.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 100.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 70 L |
