1972 AMC Matador vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 120 kg more than 2004 Ford Taurus.
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 Taurus, 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 68 L |
