1977 AMC Matador vs. 2003 Ariel Atom
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 26 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 11 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 1399 kg more than 2003 Ariel Atom. 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2003 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2003 Ariel Atom 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 | 2003 Ariel Atom | |
| Make | AMC | Ariel |
| Model | Matador | Atom |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 1 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2350 mm |
