1977 AMC Matador vs. 2009 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage 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 Kia Sportage (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Sportage weights approximately 222 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 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 Kia Sportage, 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Sportage. (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Sportage.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 2009 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | AMC | Kia |
| Model | Matador | Sportage |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 17.7:1 |
| 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 | 2083 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 65 L |
