1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 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 71 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 618 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 188 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3010 mm |
