1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 Volkswagen GLI
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 400 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen GLI.
Because 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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 Volkswagen GLI 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen GLI. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen GLI. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen GLI has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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 Volkswagen GLI | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | GLI |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2580 mm |
