1970 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1970 AMC Ambassador. (210 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1970 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1970 AMC Ambassador 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 1970 AMC Ambassador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 AMC Ambassador. (414 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 AMC Ambassador. 1970 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | AMC | Mazda |
| Model | Ambassador | 3 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 414 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2650 mm |
