1972 AMC Matador vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 37 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 602 kg more than 1972 AMC Matador. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat, 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 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
