1970 AMC Ambassador vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 41 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (248 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1970 AMC Ambassador. (210 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1970 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 10 kg more than 1970 AMC Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 AMC Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1970 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 AMC Ambassador | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Passat |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 414 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5290 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2720 mm |
