1972 AMC Matador vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 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 75 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (180 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 348 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (236 Nm). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2002 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 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
