1972 AMC Matador vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 26 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 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 Opel Vectra, 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 (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (229 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Matador | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1484 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
