1977 AMC Matador vs. 1989 Plymouth Laser
To start off, 1989 Plymouth Laser is newer by 12 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, 1989 Plymouth Laser (133 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Plymouth Laser should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 631 kg more than 1989 Plymouth Laser.
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, 1989 Plymouth Laser, 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 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Plymouth Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 1989 Plymouth Laser | |
| Make | AMC | Plymouth |
| Model | Matador | Laser |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2480 mm |
