1972 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2008 Ford Mustang is newer by 36 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, 2008 Ford Mustang (210 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Mustang weights approximately 10 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, 1972 AMC Matador (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Mustang. (325 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Mustang. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Mustang 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 | 2008 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 3998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 61 L |
