1977 AMC Matador vs. 2003 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2003 Dodge Ram 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 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Ram (500 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 413 kg more than 1977 AMC Matador. 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, 2003 Dodge Ram (732 Nm) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 AMC Matador. (298 Nm). This means 2003 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 AMC Matador. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Matador | Ram |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 8277 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 732 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 102.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 100.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 2274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3030 mm |
