1977 AMC Matador vs. 2012 GMC Canyon
To start off, 2012 GMC Canyon is newer by 35 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, 2012 GMC Canyon (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Canyon should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Canyon weights approximately 617 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 2012 GMC Canyon 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, 2012 GMC Canyon 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, 1977 AMC Matador (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 GMC Canyon. (259 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 GMC Canyon. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2012 GMC Canyon has manual transmission. 2012 GMC Canyon 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 | 2012 GMC Canyon | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Matador | Canyon |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 259 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 2478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 72 L |
