1972 AMC Matador vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 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 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 545 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
