1972 AMC Matador vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (146 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 329 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | AMC | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Matador | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2570 mm |
