2012 Audi A3 vs. 1972 AMC Matador
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 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 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1972 AMC Matador. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 24 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
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, 2012 Audi A3, 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 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Matador. (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Matador.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 1972 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Audi | AMC |
| Model | A3 | Matador |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4228 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 74 L |
