1977 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 720 kg more than 1977 AMC Matador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 AMC Matador. (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | AMC | Toyota |
| Model | Matador | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 73 L |
