1972 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 194 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | AMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Matador | SLK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
