1972 AMC Matador vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 12 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 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 182 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 900 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1984 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 1984 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Polo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
