1972 AMC Matador vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 60 kg more than 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
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 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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 (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | AMC | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Matador | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 3827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 67 L |
