1974 AMC Matador vs. 2004 Vector M12
To start off, 2004 Vector M12 is newer by 30 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, 2004 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1974 AMC Matador. (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 1974 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 162 kg more than 2004 Vector M12.
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, 2004 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 AMC Matador. (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2004 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 AMC Matador. 1974 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2004 Vector M12 has manual transmission. 2004 Vector M12 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 | 2004 Vector M12 | |
| Make | AMC | Vector |
| Model | Matador | M12 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5896 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2750 mm |
