1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (195 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 562 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1985 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (403 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1657 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2560 mm |
