1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2002 Caterham Superlight R
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 30 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 1292 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
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, 1972 AMC Ambassador (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2002 Caterham Superlight R has manual transmission. 2002 Caterham Superlight R 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 | 2002 Caterham Superlight R | |
| Make | AMC | Caterham |
| Model | Ambassador | Superlight R |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2230 mm |
