1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280Z is newer by 5 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 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 150 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 478 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 AMC Ambassador (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280Z 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 | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | AMC | Datsun |
| Model | Ambassador | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2304 mm |
