2009 Toyota Matrix vs. 1980 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Toyota Carina. (88 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1980 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 375 kg more than 1980 Toyota Carina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Toyota Carina 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 1980 Toyota Carina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Toyota Carina. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Matrix | 1980 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Matrix | Carina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
