1972 AMC Matador vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra 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 130 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 409 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. 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 Opel Astra, 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 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Matador | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
