2009 Toyota Matrix vs. 1996 Volkswagen Fusca
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 510 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Matrix | 1996 Volkswagen Fusca | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Fusca |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
