1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra (277 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 94 kg more than 2008 Opel Vectra.
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 Opel Vectra, 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Vectra. (355 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Vectra. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Ambassador | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 250 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 | 1707 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2840 mm |
