1977 AMC Matador vs. 1972 AMC Javelin
To start off, 1977 AMC Matador is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 AMC Matador (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 AMC Javelin. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Javelin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 519 kg more than 1972 AMC Javelin. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1977 AMC Matador (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Javelin. (264 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Javelin.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 1972 AMC Javelin | |
| Make | AMC | AMC |
| Model | Matador | Javelin |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 4228 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1342 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 60 L |
