1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2004 Mercury Monterey
To start off, 2004 Mercury Monterey is newer by 32 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, 2004 Mercury Monterey (201 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Monterey should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Monterey weights approximately 187 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, 2004 Mercury Monterey, 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, 2004 Mercury Monterey (357 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm). This means 2004 Mercury Monterey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2004 Mercury Monterey | |
| Make | AMC | Mercury |
| Model | Ambassador | Monterey |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 357 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1969 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3070 mm |
