1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1975 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1975 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 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 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 150 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 948 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1975 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (428 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1975 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2340 mm |
