1977 AMC Matador vs. 2009 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber 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, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 436 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
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 Dodge Caliber, 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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 2009 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Matador | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 51 L |
