1972 AMC Matador vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 1 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 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, 2012 Mazda 5, 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | AMC | Mazda |
| Model | Matador | 5 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1567 kg | 1568 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 60 L |
