1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1961 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1972 AMC Ambassador is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Trabant Universal 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 235 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 1041 kg more than 1961 Trabant Universal. 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, 1961 Trabant Universal, 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 424 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1961 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | AMC | Trabant |
| Model | Ambassador | Universal |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2030 mm |
