1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Volvo S80.
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 Volvo S80, 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | AMC | Volvo |
| Model | Ambassador | S80 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2730 mm |
