1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2003 Dodge Grand 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 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan (212 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 148 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 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 Grand 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, both vehicles can yield 332 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | AMC | Dodge |
| Model | Ambassador | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 3778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3040 mm |
