1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1971 Jeep CJ

To start off, 1972 AMC Ambassador is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Jeep CJ 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 161 more horse power than 1971 Jeep CJ. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1971 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 771 kg more than 1971 Jeep CJ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Jeep CJ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Jeep CJ 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, 1972 AMC Ambassador (428 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Jeep CJ. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Jeep CJ. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1971 Jeep CJ has manual transmission. 1971 Jeep CJ 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 1971 Jeep CJ
Make AMC Jeep
Model Ambassador CJ
Year Released 1972 1971
Body Type Station Wagon SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5899 cc 2199 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 220 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 428 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 3100 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1803 kg 1032 kg
Vehicle Length 5330 mm 3520 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 3110 mm 2060 mm