1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1978 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1978 GMC Suburban is newer by 6 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 564 kg more than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban 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, 1978 GMC Suburban 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1978 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Ambassador | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3300 mm |
