1972 AMC Matador vs. 2008 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 36 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 869 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. 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, 2008 Fiat 500, 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat 500. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2008 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | AMC | Fiat |
| Model | Matador | 500 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 70.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 35 L |
