1972 AMC Matador vs. 1958 Opel Kapitan
To start off, 1972 AMC Matador is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Opel Kapitan would be higher. At 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1958 Opel Kapitan. (74 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1958 Opel Kapitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 385 kg more than 1958 Opel Kapitan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1958 Opel Kapitan has manual transmission. 1958 Opel Kapitan 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:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1958 Opel Kapitan | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Matador | Kapitan |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2760 mm |
