1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 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 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 36 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 572 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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 Volvo S40, 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 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | AMC | Volvo |
| Model | Ambassador | S40 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2560 mm |
