1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 BMW X5
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 36 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (355 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 493 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 2008 BMW X5 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, 2008 BMW X5 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, 2008 BMW X5 (490 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2008 BMW X5 | |
| Make | AMC | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | X5 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 4797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2830 mm |
