1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 5,997 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 258 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 5997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3010 mm |
