1972 AMC Matador vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 10 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 810 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2480 mm |
