1977 AMC Matador vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 32 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 6 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 420 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | AMC | Chrysler |
| Model | Matador | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1441 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 57 L |
