1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1980 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1980 Maserati Merak 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 @ 4600 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1980 Maserati Merak. (157 HP @ 7100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1980 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 472 kg more than 1980 Maserati Merak. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1980 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1980 Maserati Merak 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 | 1980 Maserati Merak | |
| Make | AMC | Maserati |
| Model | Ambassador | Merak |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1828 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2610 mm |
