1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2007 Opel Meriva

To start off, 2007 Opel Meriva is newer by 35 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 @ 4400 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2007 Opel Meriva. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 451 kg more than 2007 Opel Meriva. 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, 2007 Opel Meriva, 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 @ 2900 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Meriva. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2007 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2007 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 AMC Ambassador 2007 Opel Meriva
Make AMC Opel
Model Ambassador Meriva
Year Released 1972 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5897 cc 1686 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 195 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 403 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 2900 RPM 2300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 103.6 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 87.3 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 18.4:1
Top Speed 169 km/hour 178 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1657 kg 1206 kg
Vehicle Length 5370 mm 4180 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 3110 mm 2500 mm