1972 AMC Matador vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 9 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 193 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 924 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2410 mm |
