1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 9 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 126 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 688 kg more than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Because 1981 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, 1981 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Ambassador | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 2395 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 |
