1972 AMC Matador vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 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 146 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 356 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 New Beetle, 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 302 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 New Beetle | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
