2003 Acura EL vs. 1977 AMC Matador
To start off, 2003 Acura EL is newer by 26 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, 2003 Acura EL (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 681 kg more than 2003 Acura EL.
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, 2003 Acura EL, 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 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura EL. (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura EL. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura EL has manual transmission. 2003 Acura EL 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:
| 2003 Acura EL | 1977 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Acura | AMC |
| Model | EL | Matador |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 4982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1861 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2900 mm |
