1974 AMC Matador vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280Z is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 AMC Matador 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 70 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 488 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AMC Matador | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | AMC | Datsun |
| Model | Matador | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5896 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 60 L |
