1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1986 Subaru XT 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 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 525 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. 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 Subaru XT, 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 (428 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT 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 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | AMC | Subaru |
| Model | Ambassador | XT |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2470 mm |
