1974 AMC Matador vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 AMC Matador is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 5,896 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 AMC Matador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 892 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Renault 12, 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, 1974 AMC Matador (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 1974 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 AMC Matador | 1973 Renault 12 | |
Make | AMC | Renault |
Model | Matador | 12 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5896 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 427 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 56 L |