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 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 45 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 91 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 (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Matador | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 74 L |
