1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1988 Opel Vectra is newer by 16 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 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 422 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. 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, 1988 Opel Vectra, 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 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Ambassador | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2520 mm |
