2003 Acura TL vs. 1977 AMC Matador
To start off, 2003 Acura TL 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 TL (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 283 kg more than 2003 Acura TL.
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 TL, 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura TL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura TL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura TL | 1977 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Acura | AMC |
| Model | TL | Matador |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 4982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1861 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 92 L |
