1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1998 Lada Samara II

To start off, 1998 Lada Samara II is newer by 26 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 83 more horse power than 1998 Lada Samara II. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1998 Lada Samara II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 812 kg more than 1998 Lada Samara II. 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, 1998 Lada Samara II, 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 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lada Samara II. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lada Samara II. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1998 Lada Samara II has manual transmission. 1998 Lada Samara II 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 1998 Lada Samara II
Make AMC Lada
Model Ambassador Samara II
Year Released 1972 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4981 cc 1499 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 67 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 332 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3400 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 970 kg
Vehicle Length 5330 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 3110 mm 2470 mm