1977 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2008 Ford Ranger 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, 2008 Ford Ranger (141 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 11 kg more than 2008 Ford Ranger.
Because 2008 Ford Ranger 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, 2008 Ford Ranger 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, 2008 Ford Ranger (330 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 AMC Matador. (298 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 AMC Matador. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Matador | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2990 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 70 L |
