1972 AMC Matador vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 31 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, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 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 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | AMC | BMW |
| Model | Matador | M3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 63 L |
