1972 AMC Matador vs. 2012 Acura TL

To start off, 2012 Acura TL is newer by 40 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, 2012 Acura TL (305 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TL weights approximately 31 kg more than 1972 AMC Matador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Acura TL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Acura TL. (370 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Acura TL. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2012 Acura TL has manual transmission. 2012 Acura TL 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 2012 Acura TL
Make AMC Acura
Model Matador TL
Year Released 1972 2012
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6571 cc 3700 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 255 HP 305 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 468 Nm 370 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 5000 RPM
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1734 kg 1765 kg
Vehicle Length 5210 mm 4928 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1453 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2776 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 76 L 70 L