1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 699 kg more than 1972 AMC Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 2406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2890 mm |
