1977 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 31 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 31 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 573 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2008 Ford Focus, 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus 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 2008 Ford Focus
Make AMC Ford
Model Matador Focus
Year Released 1977 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4982 cc 1753 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 3200 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 95.3 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 87.4 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.4:1 19.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1861 kg 1288 kg
Vehicle Length 5330 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 92 L 55 L