1972 AMC Matador vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (300 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 341 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.
Because 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (540 Nm) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (332 Nm). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | AMC | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Matador | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1567 kg | 1908 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 74 L |
