1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1961 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1972 AMC Ambassador is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen 1500 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 203 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 892 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. 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 | 1961 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1828 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2430 mm |
