1998 Volkswagen Fusca vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Fusca 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 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2012 Toyota Matrix (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. (106 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. 2012 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Fusca has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Fusca will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Volkswagen Fusca | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
Model | Fusca | Matrix |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 52 HP | 132 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 106 Nm | 173 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4366 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1765 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1549 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2601 mm |