1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1986 Holden Astra
To start off, 1986 Holden Astra is newer by 14 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 741 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra. 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, 1986 Holden Astra, 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1986 Holden Astra | |
| Make | AMC | Holden |
| Model | Ambassador | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2420 mm |
