1977 AMC Matador vs. 1990 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1990 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 13 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 51 more horse power than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 931 kg more than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1990 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1990 Suzuki Samurai 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 | 1990 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | AMC | Suzuki |
| Model | Matador | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2490 mm |
