1970 AMC Ambassador vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280Z is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 AMC Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 AMC Ambassador would be higher. At 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 AMC Ambassador (210 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 450 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1970 AMC Ambassador (414 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1970 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 1970 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 AMC Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 AMC Ambassador | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | AMC | Datsun |
| Model | Ambassador | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 414 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5290 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2304 mm |
