1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2003 Kia Opirus
To start off, 2003 Kia Opirus 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 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Kia Opirus (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (195 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Kia Opirus should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Opirus weights approximately 103 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 Kia Opirus, 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 (403 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Opirus. (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Opirus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2003 Kia Opirus | |
| Make | AMC | Kia |
| Model | Ambassador | Opirus |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1657 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2810 mm |
