1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1999 BMW 318
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 27 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, 1999 BMW 318 (192 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 507 kg more than 1999 BMW 318.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 BMW 318 (355 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 318 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 | 1999 BMW 318 | |
| Make | AMC | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | 318 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2730 mm |
