1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 GMC Envoy
To start off, 2008 GMC Envoy 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 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Envoy (285 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Envoy should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Envoy weights approximately 831 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 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, 2008 GMC Envoy, 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, 2008 GMC Envoy (374 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Envoy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2008 GMC Envoy | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Ambassador | Envoy |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 374 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 101.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 2613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2880 mm |
