1972 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Ford Taurus X
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X 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 Taurus X (260 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 460 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
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, 2008 Ford Taurus X, 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, both vehicles can yield 332 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2008 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1567 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 78 L |
