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 (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 159 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 469 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 (550 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (469 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 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 5996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 267 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1828 kg | 2297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2890 mm |
