1977 AMC Matador vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 248 kg more than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | AMC | Chrysler |
| Model | Matador | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 57 L |
