1972 AMC Matador vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 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) has 167 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 725 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2480 mm |
