1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 33 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, 1972 AMC Ambassador (195 HP) has 55 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 413 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. 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, 2005 Saturn ION, 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) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | AMC | Saturn |
| Model | Ambassador | ION |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1657 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2630 mm |
