1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 532 kg more than 2002 Opel Astra.
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, 2002 Opel Astra, 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 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Ambassador | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 86 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 | 1782 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2640 mm |
