1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1987 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1987 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 15 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, 1987 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 259 kg more than 1972 AMC Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1987 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1987 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1987 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1987 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1987 Chevrolet Astro 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 | 1987 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ambassador | Astro |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2830 mm |
