1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 417 kg more than 2008 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra 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, 1972 AMC Ambassador (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Xterra. (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Xterra. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | AMC | Nissan |
| Model | Ambassador | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 3953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2710 mm |
