1972 AMC Matador vs. 2009 Honda Civic

To start off, 2009 Honda Civic 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 156 more horse power than 2009 Honda Civic. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 450 kg more than 2009 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2009 Honda Civic, 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 (469 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Civic. (221 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Civic. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2009 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2009 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic
Make AMC Honda
Model Matador Civic
Year Released 1972 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6571 cc 1686 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 255 HP 99 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 469 Nm 221 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 105.6 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 93.4 mm 86 mm
Top Speed 186 km/hour 182 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 1180 kg
Vehicle Length 5240 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 74 L 50 L