1972 AMC Matador vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 275 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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, 1998 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1567 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 62 L |
