1972 AMC Matador vs. 2004 Ford Ka
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 32 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 161 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5650 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 525 kg more than 2004 Ford Ka. 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, 2004 Ford Ka, 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 (469 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Ka 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 | 2004 Ford Ka | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Ka |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 59 L |
