1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Ambassador 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 202 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 757 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. 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, 1974 Renault 12, 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 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 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 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | AMC | Renault |
| Model | Ambassador | 12 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2450 mm |
