1977 AMC Matador vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 971 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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | AMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Matador | A |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 94 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 | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 60 L |
