1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (69 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 663 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (469 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1828 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2470 mm |
