1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2003 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 31 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, 1972 AMC Ambassador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 43 kg more than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
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, 2003 Dodge Caravan, 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Caravan. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Caravan 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 | 2003 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Ambassador | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 101 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2890 mm |
