2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1972 AMC Matador
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 34 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 12 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | 159 | Matador |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 4982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3000 mm |
