1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra 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 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (140 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 518 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. 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 Saturn Astra, 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 (428 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn Astra 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 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | AMC | Saturn |
| Model | Ambassador | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2620 mm |
