1972 AMC Matador vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 41 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 500 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, 2013 Ford Explorer, 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.8: 1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1567 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 70 L |
