1972 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 504 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
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 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 318 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Matador | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1589 cc |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 81.5 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 | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
