1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1978 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 1978 Lancia Gamma 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 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 139 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Gamma. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 381 kg more than 1978 Lancia Gamma. 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, 1978 Lancia Gamma, 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 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Gamma. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Gamma. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1978 Lancia Gamma has manual transmission. 1978 Lancia Gamma 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 | 1978 Lancia Gamma | |
Make | AMC | Lancia |
Model | Ambassador | Gamma |
Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 468 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.9:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1326 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2680 mm |