1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino
To start off, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino is newer by 8 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) has 120 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 152 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. 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, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, 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) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ambassador | El Camino |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2980 mm |
