1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1972 AMC Ambassador is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 249 kg more than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ambassador | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2930 mm |
