1974 AMC Matador vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero 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 50 more horse power than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. (170 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 232 kg more than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero, 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) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. (271 Nm). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AMC Matador | 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | AMC | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Matador | Alero |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5896 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2720 mm |
