1972 AMC Matador vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 39 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 251 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2011 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2011 Kia Optima 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 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | AMC | Kia |
| Model | Matador | Optima |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
