1972 AMC Matador vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 34 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, 1972 AMC Matador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 245 kg more than 1972 AMC Matador.
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, 2006 Saturn ION, 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2006 Saturn ION has manual transmission. 2006 Saturn ION 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 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | AMC | Saturn |
| Model | Matador | ION |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 59 L |
