1974 AMC Matador vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 14 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 131 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 747 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. 1974 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 | 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | AMC | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Matador | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5896 cc | 1755 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2390 mm |
