1972 AMC Matador vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1972 AMC Matador is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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) has 167 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 625 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 AMC Matador (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 40 L |
