1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix is newer by 11 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 165 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 607 kg more than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. 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, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1983 Pontiac Phoenix | |
| Make | AMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Ambassador | Phoenix |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2670 mm |
