1972 AMC Matador vs. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 40 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, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 528 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 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2233 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5059 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2881 mm |
