1977 AMC Matador vs. 2005 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 563 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer 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, 2005 Ford Explorer 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, 2005 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 AMC Matador. (298 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 2005 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 85 L |
