1972 AMC Matador vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 37 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, 1972 AMC Matador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 126 kg more than 1972 AMC Matador.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Nitro. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Matador | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
