1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1959 DKW Junior
To start off, 1972 AMC Ambassador is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 DKW Junior would be higher. At 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 1128 kg more than 1959 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 AMC Ambassador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 DKW Junior, 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, 1972 AMC Ambassador (469 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1959 DKW Junior has manual transmission. 1959 DKW Junior will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1959 DKW Junior | |
| Make | AMC | DKW |
| Model | Ambassador | Junior |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 741 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 68 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1828 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2180 mm |
