1974 AMC Matador vs. 1997 Ford Versailles
To start off, 1997 Ford Versailles is newer by 23 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 129 more horse power than 1997 Ford Versailles. (91 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Versailles.
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, 1997 Ford Versailles, 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 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Versailles. (144 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Versailles. 1974 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Versailles has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Versailles 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 | 1997 Ford Versailles | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Versailles |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5896 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2560 mm |
