1977 AMC Matador vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 AMC Matador would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 606 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1977 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 1977 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1977 AMC Matador (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1977 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 1977 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2520 mm |
