1977 AMC Matador vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 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 Mazda CX-7 (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 275 kg more than 2012 Mazda CX-7.
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, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda CX-7. (218 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda CX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | AMC | Mazda |
| Model | Matador | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| 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 | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 62 L |
