1972 AMC Matador vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 535 kg more than 1972 AMC Matador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | AMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Matador | S |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 88 L |
