2008 Acura RL vs. 1974 AMC Matador
To start off, 2008 Acura RL is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 AMC Matador would be higher. At 5,896 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 AMC Matador. (220 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1974 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 518 kg more than 2008 Acura RL.
Because 2008 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. 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, 1974 AMC Matador (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Acura RL. (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RL | 1974 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Acura | AMC |
| Model | RL | Matador |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 5896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 92 L |
