1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1974 AMC Matador
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 AMC Matador would be higher. At 5,896 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 AMC Matador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 442 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1974 AMC Matador (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1974 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1974 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | Spider | Matador |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 92 L |
