1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 157 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 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | AMC | Ford |
| Model | Ambassador | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3490 mm |
