1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2005 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2005 Volvo XC90 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 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo XC90 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 416 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 2005 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo XC90 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 XC90 | |
| Make | AMC | Volvo |
| Model | Ambassador | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2870 mm |
