1974 AMC Matador vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 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 53 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 409 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. 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, 2012 Mazda 3, 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 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1974 AMC Matador | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | AMC | Mazda |
Model | Matador | 3 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5896 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 427 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 60 L |