2001 Acura RL vs. 1972 AMC Matador
To start off, 2001 Acura RL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Matador would be higher. At 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2001 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2001 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 59 kg more than 2001 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL, 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, 1972 AMC Matador (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 1972 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Acura | AMC |
| Model | RL | Matador |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 6571 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 105.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1734 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
