1977 AMC Matador vs. 1980 Renault 4
To start off, 1980 Renault 4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 AMC Matador 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 86 more horse power than 1980 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 1166 kg more than 1980 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 4, 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, 1977 AMC Matador (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 4. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 1980 Renault 4 | |
| Make | AMC | Renault |
| Model | Matador | 4 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 955 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |
