1977 AMC Matador vs. 1998 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 21 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 43 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 871 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Vitara 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, 1998 Suzuki Vitara 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 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1998 Suzuki Vitara has manual transmission. 1998 Suzuki Vitara 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 | 1998 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | AMC | Suzuki |
| Model | Matador | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.9:1 |
| 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 | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 42 L |
