1974 AMC Matador vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 31 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) has 80 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 548 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. 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, 2005 Saturn ION, 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 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AMC Matador | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | AMC | Saturn |
| Model | Matador | ION |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5896 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 49 L |
