2004 Acura CL vs. 1972 AMC Matador

To start off, 2004 Acura CL is newer by 32 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura CL (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura CL weights approximately 13 kg more than 1972 AMC Matador. 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, 2004 Acura CL, 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Acura CL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Acura CL.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Acura CL 1972 AMC Matador
Make Acura AMC
Model CL Matador
Year Released 2004 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3210 cc 4982 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 223 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 332 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 2500 RPM
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 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1567 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 5240 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1970 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 3000 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 74 L