1972 AMC Matador vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 409 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.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (427 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | AMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Matador | SL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2009 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 80 L |
