1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1996 Citroen Xantia
To start off, 1996 Citroen Xantia is newer by 24 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 112 more horse power than 1996 Citroen Xantia. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 368 kg more than 1996 Citroen Xantia. 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, 1996 Citroen Xantia, 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 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen Xantia. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen Xantia. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1996 Citroen Xantia has manual transmission. 1996 Citroen Xantia 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 | 1996 Citroen Xantia | |
| Make | AMC | Citroen |
| Model | Ambassador | Xantia |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 2088 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2750 mm |
