1977 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra 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 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 349 kg more than 2008 Kia Spectra.
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 Kia Spectra, 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 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Spectra. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Spectra 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 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | AMC | Kia |
| Model | Matador | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| 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 | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 53 L |
